Musharraf will remain army chief if not re-elected

At a Supreme Court hearing on Tuesday, a judge asked Attorney General Malik Mohammed Qayyum what would happen if Musharraf was not re-elected.

Qayyum said Musharraf8217;s position was that 8220;if I am not elected, then I will remain chief of army staff8221;.

He said Musharraf could continue as army chief under a law that allows him to hold both positions at the same time and suggested he could retain the powerful military post as long as he remains president.

The law expires at the end of 2007 although his presidential term ends November 15. Parliamentary elections are to follow by January.

The remarks could sharpen criticism of Musharraf8217;s re-election plan and a crackdown on opposition parties that argue that he is ineligible to run, particularly while he remains army chief.

They also could fuel persistent talk 8212; encouraged by hardliners in Musharraf8217;s camp 8212; that the general could impose a state of emergency or impose martial law if the court blocks his way.