As the standoff between the Army and the government continued in Pakistan, President Asif Ali Zardari flew to Dubai Thursday on what aides described as a private visit for a medical checkup. He is expected to return Friday.
Some said it was to attend a family friend’s wedding.
Fears of an immediate military coup appeared to wane, with the focus shifting to a crucial Supreme Court hearing on Monday.
A day after Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani sacked defence secretary Naeem Khalid Lodhi, both sides held their fire.
Gen. Kayani held a meeting with his top commanders in Rawalpindi, but there was no word on what transpired.
The Supreme Court will hold a hearing on Monday of a case relating to corruption in high places in which Mr Zardari figures. The court has criticised Mr Gilani for not acting in such cases.
An emergency meeting of the National Assembly called to discuss the Supreme Court order adjourned Thursday, and will meet again Friday.
Some observers say the Army may be reluctant to stage a coup, which may incur the judiciary’s wrath. It is speculated the court may act against Mr Gilani, which could lead to an early election.