Dozens of protesters picketed the Pakistani consulate in Birmingham yesterday.
The protesters waved placards, shouted slogans and handed over a letter of complaint to the consul to show their anger at the Musharraf regime, which has cracked down on political opposition and press freedom.
Passing motorists sounded horns in support of the protest, organised by the Birmingham-based South Asian Alliance group.
"It's important Pakistanis in Pakistan know through the radio and newspapers these protests are taking place, not just here but around the world," said Alliance organiser Pervaiz Khan.
This week, Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf declared a state of emergency in the troubled country, claiming the actions of extremists, terrorists and suicide bombers gave him no choice.
But protesters said the announcement, which saw judges, lawyers and politicians including Imran Khan locked up, was just an excuse by the military dictator to keep the unpopular General Musharraf in power.
They say the state of emergency, which has no set ending, places the timing of a planned election in January in doubt.
"We think the way things are, any election would be rigged," said Mr Khan. "But a rigged election is better than no election."
And protester Kashif Rajwama said the close connections between the Birmingham Pakistani community and its home country made it important to protest.
