Musharraf loyalist sworn in as caretaker PM

Embattled President Pervez Musharraf today swore in his loyalist Mohammedmian Soomro as caretaker premier to guide the emergency-ruled country through parliamentary polls due in January with the General claiming he had "introduced an essence of democracy" in Pakistan.

Soomro, 57, a former banker and leader of the well-known Soomro tribe, along with his 24-member interim Cabinet, was administered oath of office at the Aiwan-e-Sadr at a ceremony attended by a large number of dignitaries, including members of the outgoing government and diplomats.

Opposition parties rejected the interim set-up, saying they were not consulted and that polls would not be free and fair as long as Musharraf remained president and army chief.

The United States reacted cautiously saying it has to look into the government's composition and mandate.

The Bush administration also kept up pressure on Musharraf to lift the emergency and set a date for elections. US Deputy Secretary of State John Negroponte, who arrived in Pakistan tonight, will also convey these messages to the general.

Meanwhile, the authorities ended the house arrest of former premier Benazir Bhutto, rights activist Asma Jahangir and other women leaders, hours before the arrival of Negroponte.

Meanwhile, condemning the imposition of emergency and arrests of political leaders and others in Pakistan, the European Parliament today asked Gen Pervez Musharraf to revoke the martial law immediately.