THE first Asian mayor of Blackburn and Darwen today called for a return to democracy in his homeland after a military coup overthrew the Pakistani government.

Coun Salas Kiani, who originates from Azad Kashmir in Pakistan, said he would like to see Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, who is under house arrest in Islamabad, returned to power.

Troops loyal to army chief General Pervaiz Musharref staged the coup and soldiers confined the Prime Minister to his home and seized the state run media.

He said: "It would seem the government has been dismissed by the military, but I think we need to see the restoration of democracy and the sooner the better.

Coun Kiani said he did not see the takeover in his homeland increasing tensions with India.

Fellow Blackburn with Darwen Labour councillor Hussain Akhtar said: "I would like to see democracy in my country and I think there will be. There is no doubt in my mind there will be a call from the Pakistani people demanding the return of Nawaz Sharif. I think the army is likely to be in power for the time being though."

Conservative councillor Par'Vaiz Awan, said: "I am dismayed that a halt has been called to the democratic process. Not having been in Pakistan for a long time I don't know the details but any departure from democracy is regrettable and we have to be aware of the international tensions this could cause."

Former Pakistani Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto visited Blackburn in the summer. She is Nawaz Sharif's main political rival and is currently exiled in London.

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