TEGUCIGALPA - OFFICIALS on Tuesday ordered the arrest of ousted President Manuel Zelaya if he returns to Honduras after being expelled in an army-backed coup, as thousands of protesters took to the streets here.

VIDEO Zelaya appeals for UN's help (2:11) At least 10,000 people protested for Zelaya Pro-Zelaya union leaders announced a national strike and accused soldiers of blocking roads to prevent demonstrators from traveling into the capital. They said at least 10,000 people were taking part in pro-Zelaya protests in the capital, as well as in other protests around the country. ... more

And as the UN backed international calls for Mr Zelaya to return to power, the ousted leader said in New York that he would not seek a second term in office - a key concern in the tense political showdown.

Mr Zelaya, 57, was removed in his pajamas by Honduran troops Sunday and put on a plane to Costa Rica amid a dispute with the military and courts over plans to change the constitution, including to allow him to run for a second term.

Attorney General Luis Alberto Rubi said on Tuesday that Zelaya would 'immediately' be arrested if he returned to Honduras, where legal officials have accused him of 18 crimes including 'treason' and 'abuse of authority.' Mr Zelaya has vowed to return on Thursday, which many fear could spark clashes between his supporters and opponents.

But he apparently sought to defuse the tensions on Tuesday by making clear he would not seek to extend his non-renewable four-year term to which he was elected in 2005.

'If offered the possibility to remain in power (for a second term), I would not do it,' the ousted leader told a press conference in New York. I am going to fulfill my term up until January 27,' added Mr Zelaya.

Just hours after Mr Zelaya was deposed, the Honduran Congress swore in its speaker Mr Roberto Micheletti as the interim president until January.

Demonstrations grew on Tuesday after protesters on Monday defied a 48-hour curfew issued by Mr Micheletti, triggering violent clashes on the streets of the capital, Tegucigalpa.

Mr Micheletti said on Tuesday that he would consult with security forces about whether to continue the curfew, and blamed unspecified foreigners for assisting groups carrying out acts of violence, speaking on Colombian radio.

'It's better without Mel (Zelaya's nickname),' read one banner held up among thousands of anti-Zelaya protesters in the capital's main square on Tuesday, among a sea of blue and white striped Honduran flags. -- AFP