President still undecided whether to run in 2009 election

He said it was now not the time for him to convey his plans regarding the 2009 presidential election. "Let me first accomplish the many tasks that I still have on my hands until late 2009. I will make my decision known at the right time. I may well decide to run or not to run," he said.

The President made the statements at the State Palace on Thursday afternoon after breaking fast with a number of cabinet ministers, supreme state institution chiefs, foreign ambassadors, senior government department officials and mediamen.

He also said "if it is really good for the people, then, God willing, I will join the race."