The United States on Sept. 24 criticized Pakistan's government for its roundup of opposition leaders ahead of court rulings on the re-election bid by President Gen. Pervez Musharraf.

Pakistan brushed off the unusually strong criticism Sept. 24.

"As a close ally of Pakistan, with a keen eye on Pakistan affairs, I am sure the United States realizes that in any democratic society there can only be a rule of law and not a rule by the mob," government spokesman Tariq Azim said.

Musharraf plans to secure a new five-year presidential term in a ballot of federal and provincial lawmakers Oct. 6 before quitting his army post and restoring civilian rule to a country long dominated by its military.