August 19, 2007	Sunday	Sha’aban 5, 1428

LAHORE, Aug 18: Railway Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmad says the next four weeks are very crucial for the politics of the country as anything can happen if there is any hurdle in the re-election of President Musharraf.

“Imposition of emergency is a small thing. Bari dose dena paray gi,” the minister said at a news conference at the Railways Headquarters here on Saturday.

The ruling PML and its allied parties have sufficient votes for the re-election of President Musharraf by the present assemblies, he said and added: “We do not need support of any other party. However, participation of other parties will make the process more credible.

“At present, the country is passing through a very critical situation. Re-election of President Musharraf and fair general elections are a must.

Decision to allow Nawaz Sharif’s return is not important.

The president’s re-election is mother of elections. His uniform is not a hurdle in the finalisation of understanding with the PPP. There are other issues. The situation will clear after a decision on cases on the PPP leadership.

“It is not necessary that all demands of the PPP are met. Benazir Bhutto cannot become prime minister for the third time unless an amendment to the constitution is made,” Sheikh Rashid said.

Claiming that he had seen the deal between Sharif family and the government under which they had gone abroad, Rashid said he was unable to comment over the legal status of the document in case they moved a court.

“Maulana Fazlur Rahman is a candidate for the slot of prime minister.

A movement launched by his party will benefit us. Pir Pagara is also with President Musharraf,” he said.