Candidates pull out of Honduras vote

The Central American country of Honduras has been in the spotlight since its June 28th political coup. The nation will hold elections next Sunday to select a President, and many other senior posts. But on Friday, a number of candidates officially withdrew from the vote, and many supporters of the ousted president took to the streets to protest the upcoming elections.

Hundreds of Manuel Zelaya's supporters demonstrated in front of the Honduran electoral tribunal. They are rejecting the country's scheduled poll, saying those who supported the coup are now overseeing the ballot boxes.

The rally coincided with the withdrawal of a number of candidates, including one vice presidential hopeful. She is refusing to participate in the vote under the current interim government.

Margarita Elvir, Hunduran Vice Presidential Candidate, said, "Yesterday, the de facto president said he will take a six-day rest before the elections. His words cannot be trusted. For this reason, I come here today with a lot of dignity, with love for my party and my country, to withdraw."

Earlier, de facto president Roberto Micheletti said he might temporarily give up his presidential duties. He says the move will allow voters to concentrate on the upcoming elections. But the decision is not yet final.

Roberto Micheletti, Honduran Interim President, said, "I plan to be absent from my public duties for a time period that could start on November 25th and end on December 2nd. I will make a decision after consulting with the representatives of the different sectors of Honduras."