Pakistan's ruling parties are deliberating the future of the coalition as a deadline looms for the reinstatement of deposed judges.

Aides close to the Pakistan Muslim League (N) say party leaders will meet Monday to decide whether to stay in the coalition with the Pakistan People's Party.

Former PM Nawaz Sharif gestures as he talks to the media after a press conference in Islamabad, 22 Aug 2008

Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, the head of the Pakistan Muslim League (N), has indicated his party could join the opposition if the PPP does not agree by Monday to restore judges fired by former President Pervez Musharraf.

Analysts say PPP leader Asif Ali Zardari is reluctant to reinstate the judges because of concerns they could reopen old corruption cases against him.

Zardari announced plans Saturday to run for president, after Mr. Musharraf stepped down to avoid impeachment charges this past week.

A smaller coalition partner, the Awami National Party, announced its support for Zardari today.

Some information for this report was provided by AFP, AP and Reuters.