Bhutto party 'will join Pakistan poll if Musharraf barred'

Former Pakistan premier Benazir Bhutto’s party announced today that it would contest the country’s presidential election – but only if President General Pervez Musharraf is barred from running.

The announcement came as the Supreme Court resumed hearing petitions which could determine Gen Musharraf’s right to pursue a new five-year term. The opposition claims he cannot do so without giving up his powerful dual role as army chief.