New govt to be in the saddle in Pakistan before March 1

Islamabad, Feb 19 (UNI) A new set up in Pakistan would be in place before March 1.

The Election Commission (EC) would announce complete official results of the general elections this week and issue the notification on February 21 or 22, paving the way for formation of the new government, Geo TV reported quoting EC sources.

The inaugural session of the National Assembly would elect a Speaker and Deputy Speaker, which would be followed by the election for Prime Minister.

It requires 171 votes in the National Assembly for a candidate to be elected Prime Minister.

In a setback to President Pervez Musharraf, the bitter opponents of the former military ruler-- the Pakistan People's Party and the Pakistan Muslim League (N)-- have established early leads in the results of the general elections even though no party was set to gain an absolute majority, making the formation of a coalition government imminent.

UNI XC YA RAI1357