Gilani rejects coup speculations saying "masses and army fully support democracy" in Pakistan

Davos, Jan 27 (ANI): Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani has turned down speculations of a military coup in the country, saying that "both masses and the army fully support democracy".

The BBC quoted Gilani as saying that the government enjoyed good relations with all institutions, including the army, and that doubts about any army rebellion are baseless.

Gilani also expressed his deep respect for the judiciary, reminding that the Pakistan People's Party (PPP) had struggled for restoration of the judiciary, and freeing judges under house arrest.

Regarding any threat from judiciary and military, he said, "I don't think so", adding that it could be a perception but in reality it was not true.

Earlier this month, the Pakistan military had rubbished reports of a coup amid the recent tension over the Memo Gate scandal.

The alleged confrontation between the military and the government became more apparent after the military slammed Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani for sacking the Defence Secretary, appointing a new commander of the 111 Brigade and reports about army the chief's convening of emergency meetings of Corps Commanders and PSOs.

Although the military brass expressed surprise and concern over the repeated reports of a possible military coup, it maintained that it would continue with the tough line on the Memo Gate issue through a legal course of action.

The US and analysts had also said that a military coup in Pakistan was "unlikely" at this point in time.

US media outlets noted that although Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari remained widely unpopular and was still seen as "a very corrupt" ruler, neither the military nor the Supreme Court was in a position to force him out.

The military was "in a position of political isolation", which was forcing it to show "uncharacteristic restraint," the reports claimed.

"For all the headlines about the prospect of another coup, an army takeover looks unlikely any time soon," another report said. (ANI)