Pakistan media curbs withdrawn

ISLAMABAD, Pakistan, June 9 (UPI) -- Pakistan has withdrawn controversial curbs on the media following a series of protests across the country.

Information Minister Muhammad Ali Durrani announced Saturday that President Pervez Musharraf decided to withdraw an ordinance giving the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulation Authority the power to halt broadcasts, suspend licenses and even close offices of media outlets.

The ordinance was put in place a week ago, sparking protests by journalists and opposition party members.

There was no reason given, although the Press Trust of India said the announcement came after Musharraf met with members of the Pakistan Broadcasters Association.