Thousands protest in New York

THOUSANDS of people have taken to the streets of New York to protest against President George W. Bush as he accepted his party’s nomination for re-election.

The demonstrations were planned to coincide with Mr Bush’s acceptance speech at the Republican convention that is being held in this largely Democratic-leaning city.

Around 5000 people gathered in Union Square for a silent candlelight demonstration against the war in Iraq and blaming Bush for miring the United States in an unjust conflict.

Protesters held candles and flashlights, while some brandished placards bearing slogans such as "So many lies, so much death" and "Send the Bush twins to Iraq," a reference to the president’s twin daughters. Hollywood actor William Baldwin attended the vigil along with a female companion, sporting a T-shirt slamming Bush.

Some anti-Bush protesters objected to the recurring references at the convention to the September 11, 2001 terror attacks, saying the Republican party was trying to win political credit from the attacks.

"GOP (Republican Party) exploiting 9/11 to justify a needless war," one poster read. Some people wore badges or stickers proclaiming: "When Bush gives the nod, give him the NO," a reference to his acceptance speech.

The peaceful rally was organised by United for Peace and Justice, a group which orchestrated a march of around 100,000 people here last Sunday ahead of the convention’s opening, calling for an end to the war and the recall of US troops.

A short distance away, around 3,000 more protesters gathered as close as they could get to Madison Square Garden, the site of the convention, for a roudy but peaceful rally.

No arrests were immediately reported

Earlier today (AEST), a state Supreme Court judge ordered more than 500 protesters, arrested in demonstrations during the week, immediately released from jail ahead of Mr Bush’s speech.

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