Musharraf arrives back in Pakistan from Saudi Arabia

Islamabad: Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf has returned from Saudi Arabia to the prospect of being sworn in as the civilian leader.

General Musharraf has already freed thousands of people who had been held under the state of emergency he imposed on November 3, while the Supreme Court has quashed the challenges made against his election.

His spokesman has also hinted that he could quit as head of the army before the end of the week.

Speaking on US television last night, President George W Bush said that he was backing Musharraf.

"He has said he's going to take off his uniform, he's said there would be elections. Today he released prisoners, and so far I have found him to be a man of his word," he said.