Tensions are running high in Pakistan as supporters of two barred politicians have taken to the streets in major cities.

A day earlier, the country's Supreme Court had barred former Prime Minister, Nawaz Sharif, and his brother from elected office.

Protesters of the Pakistan Muslim League (N) torch vehicles during a protest against the Supreme court's decision to exclude former Pakistan premier Nawaz Sharif and his brother from elected office, in Lahore February 26, 2009. [Faisal Mahmood/CCTV/REUTERS]

On Thursday, supporters of the Sharif brothers waved flags and shouted slogans in Islamabad and Rawalpindi.

In Islamabad, protesters set tires on fire, torched cars, stoned buildings and clashed with police.

Also on Thursday, about 20 lawmakers from former Prime Minister Sharif's party were arrested as they gathered for a protest in the eastern city of Lahore.

The tensions began after the Supreme Court decision was made preventing Sharif from challenging President Asif Ali Zardari in general elections in 2013.

The court said it had done so because of a criminal conviction related to the 1999 military coup by former President Pervez Musharraf.