Musharraf in troubled waters

jorge — Thu, 31 May 2007 12:19:04 GMT

Only the Bush administration would invade one country and topple its dictator in the name of democracy and then defend another from a pro-democracy revolution. And we wonder why the rest of the world hates us.

Musharraf in troubled waters

m. merchant,del rio, texas — Thu, 31 May 2007 12:58:49 GMT

Musharraf may NOT be the angel people are looking for, but he is the best Pakistan has at the moment. At least during his rule, schools are open and businesses are flourishing. Corruption can be lower, but that is embedded in that culture like many other countries in the region.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Waqas Khan, Dearborn Heights, Mi. — Thu, 31 May 2007 14:21:27 GMT

Do we have any other Choice but Musharraf ???? Benazir and Nawaz Sharif have been time tested they have failed big time. All the opposition parties have exploited the situation and are using the former Chief Justice to reach their own goals. Mr.Iftikhar should understand that he should not let the crooked politicians use him and should think about his country and its survival. If they topple Musharraf, they will end up fighting with each other for the top position and this is not a prediction its a fact.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Dr. V.N. Rao, Toronto, Ontario, Canada — Thu, 31 May 2007 14:34:58 GMT

It is high time that the US sends an unambiguous message to the world that it supports democracies whatever be the political considerations.Its credibility has suffered serious dents over the years because of its overt support to dictatorial regimes and military juntas whenever those regimes were pliable. It is difficult to convince the world that it is bent upon bringing democracy to Iraq through five star generals and military action. Such a policy is bound to be viewed as double-faced.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Ken Rice, Saginaw, Michigan — Thu, 31 May 2007 14:37:29 GMT

President Musharraf must always be aware that some other person or group is trying to him fall from power, but With his Generals behind him I believe he will prevail,

Musharraf in troubled waters

N Lewis, Melbourne, FL — Thu, 31 May 2007 14:38:22 GMT

"Only the Bush administration..." shows off the not-so-hidden agenda of the writer and a lack of knowledge of history. Examine the Kennedy and Johnson administrations and their foreign policies which are not far off with the same support for pro-Western dictatorships. From a pragmatic viewpoint, no administration has ever been pure in their support of idealistic forms of government. Countries and their leaders always look out to maintain favorable balances of international power. None of our leaders have ever been naive in their wielding of international power. Some have just been more obvious about it.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Sal Akbani — Thu, 31 May 2007 14:46:57 GMT

When it comes to the Muslim world, the White House adminstration both Republicans and Democrats have mastered the art of how to loose friends and gain enemies in that part of the world. And it keeps getting worse. Aligining with despotic, dictators and royals from north Africa to Pakistan is a short term gain( very debatable) to certain long term loss. Why do they hate us? The answer is a lot closer - in the White House. There is a saying: Colt 45 made all man equal. In the future technology will make these poeple will make them equal in terms of Colt 45. Better turn things around before it is too late and 9/11 will sound like a fire cracker going off. Make friends with people - dictators.

Musharraf in troubled waters

PSU — Thu, 31 May 2007 14:48:17 GMT

Maintaining U.S hedgemony is at the center of U.S foreign policy. Briton had its day in the sun, and so did Rome. Its the U.S's turn to rule the world untill the next hedgemond takes over (possibly China). Pakistan, and Musharaff are just tiny pieces in the bigger picture. Spreading Democracy is NOT our goal (like some ppl would lead us believe) Keeping our position in the world IS our goal. So lets be honest with ourselves and the rest of the world: Call a spade a spade.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Khwaja Khusro Tariq, Karachi, Pakistan — Thu, 31 May 2007 14:52:53 GMT

Musharraf is not the best Pakistan has, Merchant from Del Rio, Texas. In case you have'nt been back there in the last eight years, people actually remember Nawaz Sharif (who he deposed) with fond nostalgia. Pakistan was a far better place to live in before Musharraf usurped power in 1998. The much vaunted growth rate and forex reserves are completely meaningless when 70% of the population lives on less than 2 dollars a day, when 80% of the country does not have access to potable water, when the government is considering a five-day work week to deal with a power crisis, when two provinces are in the grip of insurgencies, when inflation is the highest it has ever been in the nation's country and when Musharraf has removed all constitutional limits to his power and has become an absolute monarch. Musharraf is the PROBLEM. He is not a part of the solution. Democracy, no matter how flawed, is better than a military dictatorship. Pakistanis must throw their support behind Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry. For the first time in Pakistan there is a genuine movement against authoritarianism, a movement for constitutionalism and democracy. The military must be relegated to the barracks once and for all. They must have no role in politics. We need a constitutional amendment that makes a military takeover an act of treason. We need to make an example of Musharraf so that the army never dares to meddle in politics again.The army has ruled Pakistan for thirty five years out of the sixty it has existed. It has presided over three failed wars, the secession of Bangladesh and has treated the constitution of Pakistan like toilet paper. It is responsible for destroying our country.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Robert Ford, Clayton, La. — Thu, 31 May 2007 14:56:27 GMT

Corruption is like a flea on a good dog. You can controll it but you can not get rid of it. So it is actually there naturally. Pakistan is no different than any other democracy. How you controll it, (corruption), is what will be judged by the world. Listen up Washington!

Musharraf in troubled waters

Jim Keenan, Washington, D.C. — Thu, 31 May 2007 15:04:10 GMT

Musharraf is playing both sides against the middle, a very dangerous game. He's trying to please the Army and the U.S. while giving aid, comfort and sactuary to Al Quaida and the Taliban. His strong-arn tactics virtually assure that one day, an Islamic state will overthrow him---an Islamic state with U.S-supplied nukes...

Musharraf in troubled waters

Ali ,High Point,NC — Thu, 31 May 2007 15:11:44 GMT

go musharaf go

Musharraf in troubled waters

Ron S. — Thu, 31 May 2007 15:12:44 GMT

Considering that Pakistan was on the U.S.'s sh** list prior to Sept. 11 over their nuclear program, and considering the fact that it was a Pakistani nuclear physicist who passed on nuclear info to other nations, and considering that Musharraf did oust a democratically elected President, and considering the possibility that Osama is probably somewhere within his country, it just doesn't add up.
He's sneaky, he's cunning, and he's backed by the army, a troubling trifecta of subterfuge.
Plus, his neighbors don't like him!

Musharraf in troubled waters

A. Rehman, Newburgh, NY — Thu, 31 May 2007 15:15:43 GMT

I think since August 14 1947, democracy is really flourishing in Pakistan for the first time, economy is growing, hopefully first time in history the lawmakers assembly will complete its tenure, the press has never been free ever in Pakistan, under Musharraf press and media is writing and publishing everything they can and critisize govt in anyway they can without any consequences. The old corrupt politicians need to go, this won't happen until the people of Pakistan realize that they are their worst enemies and they keep on voting for the same crooks who have been plundering Pakistan for the past 40 plus years. I hope that Musharraf gets all the support from US and the people of Pakistan, otherwise....history will repeat itself and the same old corrupt politicians will be back running the show.

Musharraf in troubled waters

padi karachi,provincial capital of the Sindh province[ paskistan — Thu, 31 May 2007 15:20:40 GMT

http://www.dawn.com/2007/05/19/nat8.htm http://www.dawn.com/2007/05/15/nat5.htm http://www.dawn.com/2007/05/31/nat18.htm http://www.dawn.com/2007/05/17/local9.htm

Musharraf in troubled waters

jolly dede — Thu, 31 May 2007 15:22:14 GMT

To paraphrase the famous quip during the 1992 US presidential debates, when an unknown William Jefferson Clinton told then-president George Herbert Walker Bush, "It's the economy, stupid," the present concern of the current Washington administration over Darfur in southern Sudan is not, if we look closely, genuine concern over genocide against the peoples in that poorest of poor part of a forsaken section of Africa. No. "It's the oil, stupid." The case of Darfur, a forbidding piece of sun-parched real estate in the southern part of Sudan, illustrates the new Cold War over oil, where the dramatic rise in China's oil demand to fuel its booming growth has led Beijing to embark on an aggressive policy of - ironically - dollar diplomacy. With its more than US$1.2 trillion in mainly US dollar reserves at the Peoples' National Bank of China, Beijing is engaging in active petroleum geopolitics. Africa is a major focus, and in Africa, the central region between Sudan and Chad is a priority. This is defining a major new front in what, since the US invasion of Iraq in 2003, is a new Cold War between Washington and Beijing over control of major oil sources. So far Beijing has played its cards a bit more cleverly than Washington. Darfur is a major battleground in this high-stakes contest for oil control. China oil diplomacy In recent months, Beijing has embarked on a series of initiatives designed to secure long-term raw materials sources in one of the planet's most endowed regions - Sub-Saharan Africa. No raw material has higher priority in Beijing at present than oil. Today China draws an estimated 30% of its crude oil from Africa. That explains an extraordinary series of diplomatic initiatives which have left Washington furious. China is using no-strings-attached dollar credits to gain access to Africa's vast raw material wealth, leaving Washington's typical control game via the World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF) out in the cold. Who needs the painful medicine of the IMF when China gives easy terms and builds roads and schools to boot? In November last year Beijing hosted an extraordinary summit of 40 African heads of state. They literally rolled out the red carpet for the leaders of, among others, Algeria, Nigeria, Mali, Angola, Central African Republic, Zambia and South Africa. China has just done an oil deal that links it with two of the continent's largest nations, Nigeria and South Africa. China National Offshore Oil Corporation (CNOOC) will lift oil in Nigeria, via a consortium that also includes South African Petroleum Co, giving China access to what could be 175,000 barrels a day by 2008. It's a $2.27 billion deal that gives state-controlled CNOOC a 45% stake in a large off-shore oil field in Nigeria. Previously, Nigeria had been considered in Washington to be an asset of the Anglo-American oil majors, ExxonMobil, Shell and Chevron. China has been generous in dispensing its soft loans, with no interest or as outright grants, to some of the poorest debtor states of Africa. The loans have gone into infrastructure, including highways, hospitals, and schools, a stark contrast to the brutal austerity demands of the IMF and World Bank. In 2006 China committed more than $8 billion to Nigeria, Angola and Mozambique, versus $2.3 billion to all sub-Saharan Africa from the World Bank. Ghana is negotiating a $1.2 billion Chinese electrification loan. Unlike the World Bank, a de facto arm of US foreign economic policy, China shrewdly attaches no strings to its loans. This oil-related Chinese diplomacy has led to the bizarre accusation from Washington that Beijing is trying to "secure oil at the sources", something Washington foreign policy has itself been preoccupied with for at least a century. No source of oil has been more the focus of China-US oil conflict of late than Sudan, home of Darfur. Sudan's oil riches Beijing's China National Petroleum Company (CNPC) is Sudan's largest foreign investor, with some $5 billion in oil field development. Since 1999 China has invested at least $15 billion in Sudan. It owns 50% of an oil refinery near Khartoum with the Sudan government. The oil fields are concentrated in the south, site of a long-simmering civil war, partly financed covertly by the United States to break the south from the Islamic Khartoum-centered north. CNPC built an oil pipeline from southern Sudan to a new terminal at Port Sudan on the Red Sea, where the oil is loaded on tankers bound for China. Eight percent of China's oil now comes from southern Sudan. China takes 65-80% of Sudan's 500,000 barrels/day production. Sudan last year was China's fourth-largest foreign oil source. In 2006 China passed Japan to become the world's second-largest importer of oil after the United States, importing 6.5 million barrels a day of the black gold. With its oil demand growing by an estimated 30% a year, China will pass the US in oil import demand in a few years. That reality is the motor driving Beijing foreign policy in Africa. A look at the southern Sudan oil concessions shows that China's CNPC holds rights to bloc 6, which straddles Darfur, near the border with Chad and the Central African Republic. In April 2005, Sudan's government announced that it had found oil in Southern Darfur, which is estimated to be able to pump 500,000 barrels per day when developed. The world press forgot to report that vital fact in discussing the Darfur conflict. Move to militarize Sudan's oil region Genocide was the preferred theme, and Washington was the orchestra conductor. Curiously, while all observers acknowledge that Darfur has seen a large human displacement and human misery, with tens of thousands or even as many as 300,000 deaths in the last several years, only Washington and the non-governmental organizations (NGOs) close to it use the charged term "genocide" to describe Darfur. If they are able to get popular acceptance of the charge of genocide, it opens the possibility of drastic "regime change" intervention by the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) - read Washington - in Sudan's sovereign affairs. The genocide theme is being used, with full-scale Hollywood backing from the likes of stars like George Clooney, to orchestrate the case for de facto NATO occupation of the region. So far the Sudan government has vehemently refused, not surprisingly. The US government repeatedly uses "genocide" to refer to Darfur. It is the only government to do so. US Assistant Secretary of State Ellen Sauerbrey, head of the Bureau of Population, Refugees and Migration, said during a USINFO online interview last November 17, "The ongoing genocide in Darfur, Sudan - a gross violation of human rights - is among the top international issues of concern to the United States." The Bush administration keeps insisting that genocide has been going on in Darfur since 2003, despite the fact that a five-person UN mission led by Italian Judge Antonio Cassese reported in 2004 that genocide had not been committed in Darfur but grave human rights abuses were committed. They called for war crime trials. Merchants of death The United States, acting through surrogate allies in Chad and neighboring states has trained and armed the Sudan Peoples' Liberation Army, headed until his death in July 2005 by John Garang, trained at the US Special Forces school at Fort Benning, Georgia. By pouring arms into first southeastern Sudan and since discovery of oil in Darfur into that region as well, Washington fueled the conflict that led to tens of thousands dying and several million driven to flee their homes. Eritrea hosts and supports the Sudan People's Liberation Army (SPLA), the umbrella NDA opposition group, and the Eastern Front and Darfur rebels. There are two rebel groups fighting in Sudan's Darfur region against the Khartoum central government of President Omar al-Bashir - the Justice for Equality Movement and the larger Sudan Liberation Army (SLA).

Musharraf in troubled waters

Jorge Valdez, Corpus Christi, Texas — Thu, 31 May 2007 15:35:48 GMT

Had the George Bush been interested in democracy in the middle east, it would have started with governments such as the ones in Pakistan, Jordan, Egypt, and Saudi Arabia. That's where most terrorists come from. Before the invasion, no terrorist came from Iraq. The dictatorship in Pakistan, as ugly as it is, is hailed by Bush as a true friend of the U.S. So, as far as who are the good guys, they are the ones that support George Bush'(and Dick Chanie's) plans for world domination of the oil markets. They are ones who are willing to give up the ideals of their people for a couple of bucks in a Swiss account.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Ron W., Leavenworth, KS. — Thu, 31 May 2007 15:36:40 GMT

Something worth considering. What might be the worst case scenario for an extremist Islamic state armed with a nuclear weapon? Musharraf, for the international community at least, is the lesser of two evils.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Delmar Fairchild, Barron, Wisconsin — Thu, 31 May 2007 15:40:22 GMT

It is a very simple idea, but very hard to accomplish: As long as the moderate Muslims will take the responsiblity for their government, there is no need for a Dictator to rule. If the government falls into the hands of the Radical Muslims, then Musharraf needs to stay to prevent that. So it is up to the moderate Muslims to keep both the dictators and the radicals out of power and to be strong armed against both if they decide to start their trouble. I have seen very little in the way of the moderate Muslims in any country speaking out against both extremes. They may not be capable of being free and need to have someone tell them what to do.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Chuck — Thu, 31 May 2007 15:44:04 GMT

Sounds like what Musharraf is doing is similar to what Bush attempted. Bush overplayed his hand, the people got tired of it. there are too many sources of information now for Bush tactics to work . I hope the next pres understands that. Bush is toast. it is too bad he cannot replaced without impeachment. We need a new system so that when a president is this far gone he can be replaced without a nasty impeachment.

Musharraf in troubled waters

espanolito,denver — Thu, 31 May 2007 15:55:11 GMT

You guys, just one thing, remember that Pakistan posesea nuclear arms and whatever in going on there good or bad and the outcome, is important to everybody specially to the U.S

Musharraf in troubled waters

Lawrence Nyamali, Toronto, ON — Thu, 31 May 2007 15:59:56 GMT

It is sad that Mr Bush who champions democracy in Irag will support a dictatorial regime for the simple fact that it aligns with his war on terror. As long as we have these inconsistencies, there will never be peace in the world.

Musharraf in troubled waters

LN — Thu, 31 May 2007 16:02:42 GMT

Since Pakistan has been a military ruled state for most of the time it has existed, the chances of it becoming a democracy anytime in the future is very bleak. In fact, Pakistan is the only country in the world that was founded with a constitution, but has never had the people's will to exercise it ever. What is lacking is the people's (of Pakistan) will to establish the rule of law and follow a democratic path for the society. All that is required from the People of Pakistan to change their society is to make some sacrifices, such as their valuable time and resources and come out in large numbers in the open and start a civil disobedience movement in which there will be no violence or disruption to the soceity. To prevent any harm coming on themselves, the protesters should simply start gathering in public places with no Placards, banners, shoutings or outcry, but stand silently for a few hours. Give no reason for the regime to hurt or quell. Silence will speak up and the results will come in sooner. The world will understand that the people are displaying their anger through silence. This should be a large movement, enough to shame the regime and vacate on their own. Finally, when change comes or happens, the people should get their resolve to ensure and establish peoples rule with no role for the military to come for any time in the future. People of Pakistan should understand that thinking of conflict (War) with their neighbour(s) is the only reason for the military to be so big and overwhelming that they come back to rule them from time to time. With no such resolve and understanding, the people of Pakistan can only expect their society to be the same - the military of Pakistan will have nothing else to do when there is no war, so they will chose to rule the country.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Aftab Khan, Wyoming USA, Attock Pakistan — Thu, 31 May 2007 16:11:07 GMT

Pakistan better under Nawaz??? HA! No way, not even close. Pakistan was a few days away from total bankruptcy in 1999 before Musharraf took over. Musharraf has helped Pakistan tremendously. Pakistan's economy has exploded over the past six years with 6.7%-9.0% GDP growth in those years. Pakistan's poverty level has been reduced significantly. Pakistan's FOREX reserves have reached its highest levels ever and the KSE markets have reached an all time high. Pakistan has privatized telecom. and banking resulting in a huge uplift for all Pakistanis. Pakistanis now have widespread access to financing for autos,homes and commerical enterprises. Pakistan is now conducting various Mega infrastructure projects to build the economy for the future. To build a strong economy in Pakistan there must be both Macro and Micro reforms. Macro economic policies are working and Micro policies have just begun. The coordination of the two will quell inflation (which is ALWAYS a problem with rapidly growing economies)and give Pakistanis a better quality of life. Pakistan doesn't those corrupt "democratic" governments of the past. Sharif and Bhutto are thieves and were detroying Pakistan. Democracy in Pakistan means a Elitist group running and plundering Pakistan. Those Elitists are only concerned about thier personal fortunes and the fortunes of thier friends and they care nothing for the average citizen. I live in Pakistan and I have seen a huge improvement over the past 8 years. God Bless Musharraf!

Musharraf in troubled waters

Mashamhu Mauruka — Thu, 31 May 2007 16:11:11 GMT

America should stop its double standards and for once become objective in its supposed role as defender and custodian of democracy-why being two faced.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Dev, Dayton, OH — Thu, 31 May 2007 16:14:01 GMT

What can I say - it is a doggy dog world. People blinded by greed and power. You scratch my back, I will do yours, let other go to hell.

Musharraf in troubled waters

A Jafri, Orlando, FL — Thu, 31 May 2007 16:20:25 GMT

Mr. Musharraf, you should know when your presence is no longer welcome. You should know that while people like me who admire your leadership and cant stomach the thought of corrupt and retarded politicians running the country, there is a bigger truth that is now overshadowing your patriotism and good deeds. Sir, your presence at current post is no longer acceptable to growing number of people and it is to the point that it doesnt matter any more whether you are the only choice. It is time for you to go. Finally, please send the army back to barracks. If we elect poor politicians, let us suffer. May be we will learn from our pain and losses and select better people next time. But the army has to stop interrupting the democratic process once and for all times to come.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Shahid Khan Aberdeen Maryland — Thu, 31 May 2007 16:22:31 GMT

Musharaf is the best person for pakistan and for the security of our country we need Musharaf in Pakistan. We cannot let extermists and so called damocrats like Benazeer, Nawaz Shareef or Itlaf hussain hold the counrty hostage and create monsters like Taliban and Alqaeda which attacked us on 9/11.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Lamar Stone, Dallas, TX — Thu, 31 May 2007 16:26:14 GMT

When President Musharraf seized power in a military coup 8 years ago, the U.S. imposed sanctions. After 9/11, Musharraf became our new best friend. The United States is far less interested in promoting "democracy" than it is in protecting its interests around the world.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Ata Khawaja — Thu, 31 May 2007 16:26:46 GMT

Hello My friends. Musharraf is doing a great job in Pakistan.We had noting but a crooks & thief's leading our country before him. All they wanted to do was fill there pockets with our money and screw every living Pakistani in Pakistan. Before you point a finger toward Musharraf read the history of all Presidents before him and what they did for Pakistan and what he has done. People who criticize Musharraf are the biggest enemy of Pakistan.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Ed — Thu, 31 May 2007 16:27:10 GMT

Its very obvious now that Bush's policy's and war in the region have set off a chain reaction that i do not believe can be stopped now. Iraq/Saddam had a balancing effect in this region that is now gone. Iran is the major power and there has been a large swing to a more radical islam that will threaten Israel even more now than in the past. Israel helped this cause by overreacting and bombing/destroying Lebanon and causing more upheaval in the region. Bob Dylan said it best " when you have nothing, you have nothing to lose" Hundreds of thousands of refugees from Iraq, Lebanon, Gaza, with nothing to lose- sounds like alot of potental terrorists to me. Bush's policy's have become the #1 recruitment tool for terrorists around the world.

Musharraf in troubled waters

RM — Thu, 31 May 2007 16:30:00 GMT

There will never be prosperity in Pakistan and true peace in that region till the Army and dictators like Musharraf rule that country. The people of Pakistan must rise up and ensure that a true Democracy takes hold. The citizens of Pakistan must then uproot the fundamentalist institutions in Pakistan. Only then can lasting peace and prosperity take hold in Pakistan. Otherwise they are heading for a very serious situation that will spin out of control.

Musharraf in troubled waters

jc columbus ga. — Thu, 31 May 2007 16:30:50 GMT

Hmm, You give democracy to the Muslim world and you get....Hamas. Hizzbollah. Al Sadr. Thinking you can you can magically transform a region by "giving" it democracy shows a profound lack of understanding of how the concept of democracy developed in the western world to begin with. Democracy is the opposite of tribalism. That's why it doesn't work in the tribalist Muslim world.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Munnaza Khan Ellicott city Maryland — Thu, 31 May 2007 16:31:19 GMT

Musharf is the best leader for Pakistan right now.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Kurt Oswald, Santee, California. — Thu, 31 May 2007 16:34:32 GMT

The government of Musharrafis is a dictorship plain and simple. Colin Powell said the US government does not have a convince of marriage to any dictorship, he was wrong they had one remember Saddam Hussein. The US government has no morals. They will sleep with the enemy if it meets their objective. What a joke

Musharraf in troubled waters

Pill, Pickens, SC — Thu, 31 May 2007 16:35:06 GMT

The only way the to make sense of what we are doing is to assume that pundits ( Rowe, CIA, or somebody ) has concluded that planet earth is not big enough for the religion of free will, personal responsibility and forgiveness to coexist with the religion of authority, subjugation of free will, and revenge. Consequently, we're doing what we can to arrange for both factions of the other side to have leadership, weapons and delivery systems so that eventually they can nuke it out, minimizing the number and power of the survivors that Western society will eventually have to deal with. Musharrif is just a chess piece, but he's one of ours right now.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Aoushra Razanouskas Edinboro PA — Thu, 31 May 2007 16:35:20 GMT

Musharaf is the best president ever in the history of Pakistan.

Musharraf in troubled waters

A Paki — Thu, 31 May 2007 16:41:29 GMT

Pakistan doesnt need democracy!!! People over there are not capable of holding on to democracy. And the reason is that most people in that country are looking out for their pockets not for the betterment of the country. Also this country is divided along ethnic lines. Someone is a Mahajir, Punjabi etc. No one is a Pakistani!!!! I have yet to meet anyone in the US who says I am a New Yorker, Texan etc. They all say I am an American!!!

Musharraf in troubled waters

Jason Smith — Thu, 31 May 2007 16:43:52 GMT

Democracy does not itself bring either peace or good governance. Just look at the Palestinians, and their fairly elected, fully democratic, and thoroughly irrational, self-destructive, and evil Hamas government. Unless you are the type of person who cheers every time a "martyr" blows up a bus full of "infidels" then true democracy is the last thing you want to see in Egypt, Pakistan, and many other places (sadly) The call for democracy did make for great propaganda (and honest critique) against the Soviets twenty years ago, but anyone who follows events these days ought to know better than to think that it's going to help ease the great conflict of our age. Sadly, our only hope of avoiding WWIII lies in leaders like Musharraf who have the sense and strength to supress their own population's bloody desires. Perhaps after the Islamic Reformation these countries will be ready for democracy but for now pray that Musharraf survives.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Kashif, Houston Tx — Thu, 31 May 2007 16:44:37 GMT

When the Indian subcontinent got its Independence only one country got true Independence India, the other Pakistan was colonized again this time by its Army. What a shame. Today Pakistanis need to wake up and demand their freedoms again not from the haughty british but from their own modern colonial masters. Let freedom ring....We are with you Mr Chief Justice...GO Musharaf GO.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Rehanna, Charlotte, North Carolina — Thu, 31 May 2007 16:47:14 GMT

Ron. S, I don't blame you for thinking that Musharraf shouldn't have ousted a "democratically elected President," but you should know the background behind the story before judging Musharraf so severely for that act. Nawaz Sharif was an affluent land-owner who got voted to be prime minister of Pakistan at that time. However, you have to keep in mind how corrupt all of our prime ministers and politicians have been over the years, and one also has to keep in mind that corruption easily leads to rigged elections in Pakistan. Nawaz Sharif was no better than the rest..he turned out to be as bad as Benazir Bhutto was for Pakistan.. he put our country in millions of dollars worth of debt that we are still trying to pay off. He had offshore bank accounts and was involved in all sorts of other shady activity.. Together, he and his brother, Shabaz Sharif, terrorized law-abiding Pakistani citizens who got in their way. My mother and baby sister were on the plane along with Musharraf when the coup took place in 1999. Nawaz Sharif ordered the plane not to land because he knew Musharraf was on his way to take over control of the government. There was a large group of school children flying back from a sports convention in Sri Lanka on that plane, as well, and when the pilot told Nawaz Sharif that they were running out of fuel and needed to land ASAP, Nawaz Sharif told the pilot not to land under any circumstances. Does that sound like a rational sort of person to you? Thankfully, the plane made an emergency landing in Karachi before they ran out of fuel, and Musharraf has been in control of our government ever since. But you also have to know the country to know that he has made many economic, infrastructural, and education-related improvements in Pakistan over the past 8 years.. and for that, I am thankful.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Khursheed, Austin, TX — Thu, 31 May 2007 16:47:49 GMT

Military is THE scourge of pakistan. It has to be once and for all taken to task. The generals are the most incompetent, corrupt lot. They have destroyed institutions. Without institutions and rule of law prosperity cannot happen.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Ariq, Oceanside, Ca. — Thu, 31 May 2007 17:01:35 GMT

I read this messages from the various peoples and I am constantly amazed at the fluidity of their morals. The position of many of them is "because he's our ally in this war on terror" we give him a pass on the corruption and terror with which he uses to control his own people. He is no different in his methods than Sadam Hussein he just doesn't have oil. Additionally, I beg to differ with those of you, m. merchant, who think business and schools weren't functioning prior to this dictatorship. I work for a Pakistani family, I hear the truth(s) from them.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Steve Weatherhoolt, EDH, CA. — Thu, 31 May 2007 17:01:39 GMT

The ISI (Inter-Services-Intelligence) is the real power in Pakistan. The ISI is the Pakistan's national terrorist agency. It is where AlQuada and BinLadin came from. Some believe in the ISI 911 connection. Pakistan has the US over a barrel because it has nuclear weapons. The real issue is Kashmir!

Musharraf in troubled waters

Roomi, Chicago, IL — Thu, 31 May 2007 17:02:59 GMT

He is good guy at least he is better than Benazir and Nawaz. Check out country progress.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Jon Davis, El Paso, TX — Thu, 31 May 2007 17:06:29 GMT

Unfortunately the "liberal" media, not the US government, has legitimized dictators like Musharraf by calling Musharraf a "president." And while the US and Britain continue to pummel Venezuela's democratically-elected president, Tony Blair just visited and embraced a smiling Moammar Gaddafi, the dictator who has ruled oil-rich Libya with a brutal hand for almost 40 years and who murdered several hundred Americans in terrorist attacks. That pretty muchs tell me about the state of "democracy" in the US.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Mohammad Khan, Madison, WI — Thu, 31 May 2007 17:24:52 GMT

Pres.Gen.Musharaf in my opinion is a great person, we unfortunatly are now used to see every body either all good or all bad. He did a great job as a General, he has been forced to come in power(Is any body is questioning Mr nawaz shareef that why he was not allowing PIA plane carrying Gen. Musharaf with hundreds of other pakistani to land in the country or we forgot it). After becoming the president what challenges he faced and how nicely he kept Pakistan on the path of prosperity. Pakistani people knows every thing they are seeing each and every development, they are smart and can compare the PPP and Nawaz Shareef,s time. Pakistan need A STRONG Leader like Gen. Musharaf Bold, Honest and intelligent. who just want to develop Pakistan and improve ordinary Pakistani,s life. Dr.Khan, Madison, WI

Musharraf in troubled waters

DS, NYC — Thu, 31 May 2007 17:25:20 GMT

this is so funny - what the world is figuring out about Musharraf now, the Indian government has been telling the world forever! Only now, suddenly Pakistan is such a darling of US media - how can you support a dictator when he sends jihadis to his neighboring country? I guess finally US foreign policy experts are realizing how much ignorant they are!

Musharraf in troubled waters

john doe — Thu, 31 May 2007 17:33:33 GMT

I hear Osama is staying at this house and using his pool.

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Tony R. — Thu, 31 May 2007 17:40:08 GMT

"Do we have any other Choice but Musharraf ????" Who said it was our choice to make? Don't you think the Pakistani people can decide on their own?

Musharraf in troubled waters

S.Alwy — Thu, 31 May 2007 17:41:33 GMT

It is very easy to pass comments from far away, based on news which may be one sided. People Living in Pakistan can only depend on the news which is also One sided. If you look at the picture from both sides, judgements can be made. In the case of President Musharraf. He at least is not corrupt as previous rulers.No stories have emerged in localor foreign papers for any case of corruptuion. For the moment He should stay till the elections.For him to stay longer will make the public feel fedup and would require a change. As for the Chief Justice's case. He and his men have made a terrible mistake. He should now make amends which would make him stronger and the public would accept him for another 5 years.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Sahenshah — Thu, 31 May 2007 17:42:52 GMT

Hey guys, don't blame Musharraf. He is just doing what Bush is doing here in US - choking the voice of democracy, taking away your freedom and making you wish that you were never born if you dare to criticize him. No wonder Bush and Musharraf are so close friends! Bush needed a country to keep Bin Laden in till the end of his term so that the American people are scared. He also needed to keep an eye on China and India. There's no better place than Pakistan and no better person than Musharraf, even if he's a military dictator - so what?

Musharraf in troubled waters

Frank Chicago, IL — Thu, 31 May 2007 18:09:18 GMT

Mushraf should now leave the power and let other politician take over the presidency.

Musharraf in troubled waters

zharris, LaGrange Georgia — Thu, 31 May 2007 18:10:05 GMT

I agree that Musharraf is corrupt. (Sounds like Washington doesn't it) But I also agree that one reason the people over there hate us is because of our interference into their lives and government. Wonder how George Bush would like it if one of those eastern countries came over here and told us how we were going to run our country.

Musharraf in troubled waters

naeem,quetta,pakistam — Thu, 31 May 2007 18:10:41 GMT

pakistan,s political leaders have time and again proved inability to lead nation because basically they are feudals,selfish,unpatriotic,extremely disloyal. we dont need them.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Craig — Thu, 31 May 2007 18:29:46 GMT

Go Ron S. Go. You hit the nail right on the head.

Musharraf in troubled waters

SB — Thu, 31 May 2007 18:32:22 GMT

The new definition of Democracy is 'Electing to power any Person or Government that is in Full agreement and complicit with the Policies and Actions of the US Government'

Musharraf in troubled waters

ABC — Thu, 31 May 2007 18:34:01 GMT

Musharraf should go if he is not going to abide by the independent judiciary. US is applying an utterly hypocritical role by supporting Musharraf and not seeking democratic reform that Musharraf had originally promised.

Musharraf in troubled waters

ABC — Thu, 31 May 2007 18:34:16 GMT

Musharraf in troubled waters

John Doe, Seattle, Washington — Thu, 31 May 2007 18:36:16 GMT

It seems like the only reason Musharaf is still president is because Bush adminstration likes him. However it sounds very weired democtraticly speaking. Why the US does not put a president merely because Pakistan likes him? shouldn't the president be representing his people and not a foreign will, or let's say, not a traitre? The US support of such leaders will be reflected on American as bad as it could be immagined. Musharaf should respond to his people wishes and leave office gor good.

Musharraf in troubled waters

BYUTexan, Texas — Thu, 31 May 2007 18:41:06 GMT

If the people of Pakistan want a democracy than why not let them have it? Withdraw support from Musharraf. With that said what do we do to help prevent them from forming a government favorable to supporting terrorism?

Musharraf in troubled waters

Mekal Faruki, Sacramento, California. — Thu, 31 May 2007 18:41:45 GMT

The U.S. President directs a policy of certain persons being held incommunicado without due process, in Guantanamo, Abu Ghraib, secret CIA prisons in Europe, or Pakistan. This policy has been found to be ultra vires and illegal in by the Judiciaries of the United States, Europe, and Pakistan. Justice Chaudhry does not find a constitutional basis for persons to be held incommunicado without due process under Pakistan law, the majority of legal authorities hold the same view in the United States, Europe, and Pakistan. The request for the resignation of Justice Chaudhry probably orignated in the office of the U.S. President. Musharraf cooperates with Washington within the reasonable scope of that of an ally. Musharraf was handed a reference from the law minister, which he had a duty to forward to the Supreme Court of Pakistan. Whether the reference has sufficient facts to constitute an actionable basis for removal is something only the proceeding can disclose. Musharraf may well be an unwilling intermediate, between the pressure being applied by the U.S. President on the one hand, and the legal integrity of Justice Chaudhry on the other hand. Justice Chaudhry will not cooperate with with ultra-vires demands, conveyed by Musharraf or the Pakistan Intelligence Agencies originating in the office of the U.S. President. The U.S. President may have to withdraw his demands, as he withdrew other ultra-vires demands like the demands made of General Ashcroft which he refused to sign, and not interfere in the operation of the Pakistan Courts. The similarity between the U.S. Justice Department revolt under General Ashcroft and the Pakistan Judiciary revolt under Justice Chaudhry is striking in its similarity, with a high degree of probability that the instigator of both incidents is the U.S. President.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Ron — Thu, 31 May 2007 18:42:43 GMT

Musharraf is just another George Bush Puppet.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Ron Tempe AZ. — Thu, 31 May 2007 18:45:20 GMT

Musharaf is just another George Bush Puppet.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Paul Collingwood London, England — Thu, 31 May 2007 18:46:14 GMT

Pakistan is the epicenter of international terrorism and is the most dangerous country in the world.... it has weapons of mass destruction (no doubt about unlike iraq) ... it is ardent supporter of jihadist and other terror group especially those involved in terror against its neighbors.... and is completely unstable...the us should have invaded pakistan instead of iraq and taken away all of its nuclear weapons....

Musharraf in troubled waters

Adept Havelock — Thu, 31 May 2007 18:52:11 GMT

I wonder about our blind support for the dictator Musharraf. Specifically, I wonder if it will be as much of a long-term success for us as our support of The Shah of Iran, Saddam Hussien in the 1980's, Batista of Cuba, or Diem of S. Vietnam.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Anilesh, San Francisco, CA — Thu, 31 May 2007 18:59:09 GMT

Sahenshah, you are obvously an uneducated hooligan who likes to make baseless attacks on the President of the United States. zharris, The US has never gone anywhere to tell people how to run their govt. completely unwelcome as much as some in the Middle East will claim..Even with Iraq, as much as some pollsters claim that the majority there want us to leave, I would love for there to be an actual national vote and then see what the Iraqi people really want. Honestly, we should call some of these people's bluff. Whenever the US does take a step back and say "your problem," it gets chastised and then when it comes to help, welcomed by the people they are helping, they're again chastised. With Pakistan however, after 9/11, it was well within the US rights to hold their feet to the fire..they have been complicit in much of the harboring of terrorism..if any thing the US was and has been too nice to them, giving them chance after chance. Some will even argue that no, the US shouldn't tell them what to do but rather bomb the ---- out of them as an enemy state. So I guess pragmatically speaking, take your pick; whihc option do you think would have been better?

Musharraf in troubled waters

Farah Jamil, Islamabad — Thu, 31 May 2007 19:14:35 GMT

President Pervaiz Musharraf is the best leader Pakistan has seen from as long as I can remember. He has demonstrated his leadership without the use of force at his command, which is the powerful Pakistan Army. The Unity of the Pakistan's Generals in Musharraf's support is absolutely Admirable because as long as the Country's Army stands together, nothing can harm the Country. Pakistan's public, however is pathetic when it comes to their political choices. They choose to be fooled by the same people (Bay Nazir & Nawaz Shriff groups) over and over again. Long live President Musharraf and may God's hand be upon him & protect him.

Musharraf in troubled waters

D, Santa Clara, CA — Thu, 31 May 2007 19:14:43 GMT

To those excusing our support of a brutal military dictator in Musharraf as our best option, I say it was obvious in 2003 and more obvious today that continued support for brutal military dictator Saddam Hussein was our best option in Iraq. What we have now in Iraq is a disaster. And Musharraf is overthrown, we'll have on in Pakistan and they are a nuclear power. This administration is inept at foreign poilcy with the three stooges (Bush, Cheney, and Rice) at its head. But don't forget the other fools including Rumsfeld and Wolfowitz.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Wajid Khan — Thu, 31 May 2007 19:17:24 GMT

I think, at present, Mr. Musharraf is the best choice. Yes! he made a big mistake in removing the CJ. I do not agree with this decision and some of his other policies. We definitely, do not need another episode of Benazir or Nawaz. Both were very corrupt and looted the country with both hands.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Peter, Denver CO — Thu, 31 May 2007 19:20:56 GMT

My family suffers every day from Dubbya's failed foreign policies but the reality is this: All US presidents are involved in foreign policy because it effects us - especially now! Our US leadership's failure to get engaged in the early twentieth century helped the Mid East and the rest of the spice road evolve via the Great Game of the British and The Russians. The Madrasas in Pakistan created the Taliban. They are there because we did not get engaged in real foreign policy with the Saudis or the Pakistanis in the 80's and 90's. I'm not excusing this but the reality is this. Moderate muslims do not stand up for moderation. They sit idly by while extremists warp the world view of a beautiful religion. Until moderate muslims stand up for their religion and it's wonderful possibilities, Extremists Will Continue To Rule Islam. Lebanon will fail, Iraq will fail, Palestine will fail and ultimately Pakistan will fail because the Extremist minorities will rule. They build schools to educate the poor and the moderates do nothing, allowing another generation of extremists to be created. They do nothing because they stay away from their own poor and impoverished peoples because, like Americans poverty scares them. Stand up for moderate Islam and start by helping your own poor and then we will stay out of your business. Until then, I want the nukes and terrorists to stay where you made them and I will support a US government that works to do that.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Jack Smith, Houston, TX — Thu, 31 May 2007 19:28:37 GMT

Despite all his flaws Musharraf is the best person to rule Pakistan. If he goes away, Jihadists will come to power, nukes will get into hands of Jihadists and the situation would be horrible. I feel sorry for the freedom loving Pakistanis, but the truth is that not every country is meant to be a democracy. Pakistan is a chaostic state. Only dictators like Musharraf can bring some order to the chaos.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Aamir Ali — Thu, 31 May 2007 19:29:02 GMT

Musharraf is indeed in a lot of trouble right now, but according to the American media he has been in "trouble" since 2001. You folks are simply addicted to crisis.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Jack Waldrop — Thu, 31 May 2007 19:39:27 GMT

Morons say things like "Musharraf is just another George Bush Puppet". If he was, we'd have bin Laden by now. That would bring up Bush's approval ratings and he knows it. Ron isn't very bright!

Musharraf in troubled waters

Richard Wilde, Portland, Oregon USA — Thu, 31 May 2007 19:39:37 GMT

The US is continuing to support terror within degenerate nations like Pakistan so that the US can continue trying to put a good face on its "war against terrorism".

Musharraf in troubled waters

Kurt Urbaschek,San Diego,California — Thu, 31 May 2007 19:46:35 GMT

In disagreement with Dr.V.N.Rao,Toronto and in agreement with Kurt Oswald,Santee,Ca.I will start quoting Dr.V.N.Rao (but then deviating from his quote) " It is high time that the U.S.(Government) sends an ambiguous message to the world ",that it now has the Greatest Evil Empire,since the Roman Empire existed,with the U.S. now occupying 130 countries in the world (with most of them to protect their,by us established Puppett Governments,which would fall the minute our troops leave),to "teach " them our so-called (Fake)"Democracy",where this and that party is forbidden,these and those Candidates are excluded,and so called "elections" are forced upon those people under the nose of our troops,ect.Even in our beloved Country America a Candidate has absolutely no chance of being elected(Republican or Democrat alike)unless he or she clearly states that he or she is Pro-Israel(being "Pro-America" doesn`t matter at all).Of course,we are a Colony of Israel,and have been so for many years,always executing Israels demands dictated to our Governments by their Agents and Spies in our Country AIPAC,the "Anti-Defamation League ect.I believe that every American should read the book " Rogue State" by William Blum,it may open their eyes,unless they wear blinders like horses that allows them to see only in one direction,or keep repeating like parrots what our Israeli News Media keeps telling them over and over again.But there is absolutely no doubt in my mind,that our "Great Evil Empire" will wind up with the same fate,as the Roman Empire did.The first signs are already there for some time,but since I am 83 years old,I won`t see it.I only feel very,very sorry for our children and grandchildren,and all of our brave troops who died and got maimed for life in vain,not fighting for our beloved Country America,but for a totally foreign,most terrorist,and Internationally outlawed country Israel(who doesn`t even have one single soldier in Iraq or Afghanistan to support our troops).Greetings from San Diego,California

Musharraf in troubled waters

abdl, Houston, Tx — Thu, 31 May 2007 19:47:15 GMT

If you know Pakistan well, everybody should support President Musharaf, as all other politician are corrupt and next phase of leaders who are Islamic are totally confused. Give him a chance; he is doing his best to fix Pakistan. Its sad but true, due to a very low Literacy rate, only rule which is successful in Pakistan is a President with its Military backing. He is the guaranteed solution to prevent Religious extremism globally in the long run, just Like Pres Mubarak of Egypt, might not be the ideal leaders, but can do a whole lot of good in controlling religious extremism.

Musharraf in troubled waters

JBinMO, Missouri — Thu, 31 May 2007 19:47:46 GMT

I get the feeling that all the Americans that would like to get rid of Musharif are the same people that think our war in Iraq is "illegal" but somehow think that we should go into sudan.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Starcrafter — Thu, 31 May 2007 19:52:26 GMT

Musharraf is an American backed dictator in the same way that Noriega was in Panama. He is just another puppet in the likes of Osaman Binladen. This is nothing new, there are puppets galore and it should be to no surprise to anyone. This is the way of the world. The strong use the weak and the weak let themselves be used in an attempt to become strong. It rarely works as planned. When you make a deal with the devil, sooner or later you have to hold his tale and he does his bussiness all over you. Lets not be hipocritical, lets call it how it is, everyone falls in one of the two categories at one point or another. We come back to Binladen, he got used and abused, dejected and rejected he had to hold the tail and we got splattered as well. Going back to the current U.S. puppet, Musharraf represents to Pakistan its own buffer, in turn allowing for stability in the region, in any case India is next door and the Muslim Extremist will have to deal with them first if they were ever to take control of Pakistan. The latter would spell disaster and forget about Israel and the rest of the world as we know it.

Musharraf in troubled waters

starcrafter111 — Thu, 31 May 2007 19:56:21 GMT

Dear Jack: I understand your frustration. We all have it in us, but it is not as simple as you put it. If you look at Musharraf closely, you can almost see that he is a clone and not a real person and the example you give, provides proof that politics is the dirties word in existance.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Starcrafter — Thu, 31 May 2007 19:59:16 GMT

Musharraf in troubled waters

Anilesh — Thu, 31 May 2007 20:07:37 GMT

I want to echo Jack Waldrop-thank you! If only the President could make a puppet out of Musharaaf, life would have been so much easier. Unfortunately it hasn't been easy working with them-yet it's the only choice we have I guess. Pakistan and Musharaaf, can't live with them and can't live without them.

Musharraf in troubled waters

mKhan, Madison WI — Thu, 31 May 2007 20:08:20 GMT

Pres.Musharaf is great pakistani, if there was a complaint by a judge against the ch.justice filled what should he do. now refrence is in the court, let the court decide if chief justice has done anything wrong or not. Chief Justice should have faith on judiciary system and on other judges. he should have stop working by himself and should have asked for an enquiry. once cleared from alligation he should have resumed his job again instead of politizing the matter and left a suspeciousness of being a biast in future to favor one or two political parties if he come back. these parties past is questionable anyway i am sure Pres. Musharaf did the right thing to let the other judges to decide.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Muhammad Umar Farooq, Austin, Texas — Thu, 31 May 2007 20:10:23 GMT

In response to Khwaja Khusro Tariq, Karachi, Pakistan: I have been to pakistan 2 times in last 4 years and do not agree that people are longing for nawaz sharif or benazir (two corrupt rulers who brought pakistan close to be declared a failed state). In the last 5 years not a single significant demonstration was staged in support of nawaz sharif and benazir. Following are just a few achievements of Musharaf and his government. 1) For the first time in 20 years, the current government will complete the full 5 year term. Previous governments were sacked for corruptions, misuse of powers etc. 2) The number of news and media channels are increased from a single state-run PTV to over 15 private/public channels - thanks to the open media policy of this government. This is another reason why we are getting detailed coverage of whats happening in pakistan, which in previous governments went uncovered. 3) Established local government system in the country which world bank termed as a 'silent revolution'. Now every city has a mayor with full administrative, financial independence. In 2005, mayor of karachi was among the world's top 10 outstanding mayors. http://www.worldmayor.com/index.html 4) Took are bold stand against extremism that was flourishing in pakistan's society, resulting in three assassination attempts. 5) Being a student, what i admire the most is his education policy and creation of HEC (higher education commision). http://www.hec.gov.pk/new/index.htm Realizing the importance of education, this commision has provided countless scholarships for higher education. It would be wrong to say that there are more scholarships than there are students willing to take them. Finally regarding the removal of chief justice, this issue is a purely legal issue and is currently being heard in the supreme court of pakistan. However political parties are trying to use this legal issue for their political purposes thereby creating unrest in the country. After all it was nawaz sharif who ordered an attack on the supreme court of pakistan on Nov 28, 1997.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Maira, Simi Valley, CA — Thu, 31 May 2007 20:29:24 GMT

I think Musharraf is one of the best leaders Pakistan has had for a really long time. The problem with Pakistan has always been not being able to handle corruption because those corrupt seek shelter under a political battle and therefore the country can never fight its politicians, chief justices or feudal lords. Musharraf has taken a stand and if he wins the country will suffer from less corruption in the future.

Musharraf in troubled waters

farhan,chicago,il — Thu, 31 May 2007 20:29:29 GMT

although musharraf has made some bad decisions recently ,but he is far more better for the pakistani nation.we have seen all the corrupt politicans from benazir bhutto to nawaz sharif who almost bring the country to bankrupcy.To the (chief justice and opposition parties) shares the blood on their shoulder along with mqm for killing 50 people on may 12th.

Musharraf in troubled waters

padi: KARACHI ,provincial capital of the SINDH: pakistan — Thu, 31 May 2007 20:34:45 GMT

Apex court urged to rectify past mistakes: Validation of unconstitutional measures http://www.dawn.com/2007/05/31/top1.htm Pakistan near bottom of peace index: study http://www.dawn.com/2007/05/31/top12.htm http://www.insaf.org.pk

Musharraf in troubled waters

The Big Fix — Thu, 31 May 2007 20:58:04 GMT

There are now 300 million Americans. Out of this, there are approximately 45 million hispanics, 40 million blacks, 13 million asians and 7 million jews. I suggest that we allow exactly 7 million arab-muslims into this country so there are exactly the same number of arabs here as jews. By doing this, we will balance the political spectrum and be more likely to have positive relations with the REST of the middle east!

Musharraf in troubled waters

khan, usa — Thu, 31 May 2007 21:01:08 GMT

We love Musharaf. people make mistaks but his performance is extra ordinary and exceptional, we can accept democracy and other leaders but only under his suppervision. unfortunatly this is because of politicians old record.

Musharraf in troubled waters

John A Smith, Chicago, IL — Thu, 31 May 2007 21:21:04 GMT

He is a dictator. But in other hand he is the best option Pakistan has. All that money he got and getting from US is not a small chunk. I hope one day Pakistan truely will democracy but I don't think they ever will because of the curruption.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Matthew Tanner, Good Hope, Georgia — Thu, 31 May 2007 21:41:16 GMT

Saying that Musharraf is the best or only leader that Pakistan can come up with right now is just code for “we just don’t want another Muslem state.” Musharraf is a puppet.

Musharraf in troubled waters

david,baltimore,md — Thu, 31 May 2007 21:48:20 GMT

It is indeed amusing to read the criticism that the US is hypocritical in discouraging democracy in Pakistan while allegedly encouraging it in Iraq.What is really hypocritical is espousing that we have a democracy in the US.Does anyone honestly believe that this administration believes in democracy?The Gore -Bush eelction controversy,warrantless spying on our citizens,assertions of executive privilege to hide behind,dismissal of US attorneys for political reasons,increasing the number of forces in IRAQ when the public has clearly voted aginst same in the last congressional elections,the legitimizing of torture,the disclosure of CIA undercover operatives for political benefit,etc.So before we hand wring over the lack of democracy in pakistan,lets get our own house in order.

Musharraf in troubled waters

david,baltimore,md — Thu, 31 May 2007 21:51:00 GMT

Musharraf in troubled waters

Khabba Tatta -e- Hussein, Los Angeles, CA — Thu, 31 May 2007 21:53:06 GMT

Mr. Musharraf is about 65 years and still running the military, and would do any thing and every thing to keep the seat! This whole judicial crisis has been a true night-mare for this military junta, and hopefully this will bring this dirty house down and there will be true and free elections in pakistan and the exiled leaders will participate.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Khabba Tatta -e- Hussein, Los Angeles, CA — Thu, 31 May 2007 21:53:21 GMT

Musharraf in troubled waters

GS — Thu, 31 May 2007 23:11:39 GMT

I think dictatorship is directly related to terrorism. All the countries which has dictatorship is prone to terrorism. In dictatorship people feel that they are not part of the government and have no voice in the government and thay become terrorist.That is what happening in Muslim contries like Saudi Arabia, Egypt,Pakistan etc. Take the case of neibouring India which has the second largest muslim popualation and yet they never become terrorists. US is doing a mistake in supporting dictators like Mushraf on one hand and preach about democracy arround the world. This is a shame for the US.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Concerned Canadian — Fri, 01 Jun 2007 00:25:18 GMT

I am a Canadian in my mid twenties who follows world affairs quite closely. I look at the state of affairs and how this world is like an aresol can in the fire ready to blow at any minute. I fear by the end of my time, we shall exist in a much more polarized society and worry the only way I will die a free man is in a war, or by an act of terrorism. I find myself deeply regretful about bringing a child into this world for fear of what they might have to endure after my time. The sad reality is that given the choice so called "democratic" muslim countries elect extremeists into power: Hezbollah, Hamas, Ahmadinejad, and well Bashir al-asad if you can call any part of that recent election democratic. Pakistan is a nuclear power and it would be my hope that Musharraf would rule for as long as I live. Quite simply not a reality and I cringe when I think of what or who will rule after him. The world is not always the way we would like it to be, so we just have to do the best with what we have.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Shmueli, Ensenada, Baja California, Mexico — Fri, 01 Jun 2007 00:30:21 GMT

Id hate to say it but Musharraf is at present the best choice, as I cant say a "good" choice. What people dont seem to understand is that a democracy movement might not create a peaceful atmosphere or better resolve for human rights. Let us not forget that Sadam Hussein was crushed, and they Iraqi people didnt birth a western democracy. To quote a white house official, "We thought we were going to birth an American style democracy... at this point we would be happy with a Romanian style democracy." In Iraq the people have choosen to bring about an Islamic state that is turning into a Shiah state. The Palestinians, after 50 years of Israel trying to force them to adopt a democratic, pluralistic government have choosen to first be governed by the Fatah terrorist and now by the Hamas terrorist. Becareful what you ask for, mind what they will ask for... you just might get it.

Musharraf in troubled waters

abrar — Fri, 01 Jun 2007 04:11:00 GMT

Musharraf is going down the same way his predesessors (Ayub Khan,and Zia Ul Haq) went after their long and draconian hold on the Pakistani nation. The unravelling of the Mush regime started March 9th 2007 when his so called "enlightened moderation" was exposed and the Chief Justice of that country was given a "dressing down" to either come in line or "leave" The people rallied around a figure who refused the "generals orders" and the dynamics of the country changed to the delight of the Pakistani middle class joined by all sections of the society. The whole drama of democracy was again exposed when the thugs of an ethnic party supporting Musharraf were let loose on unarmed supporters of the Chief Justice welcoming him to Karachi where he was to speak at the Karachi Bar Association. The last straw seems to have been the clamping down on the Live broadcasts from the media and banning the launch of a book on the Military's Business involvemenst in Pakistan.

Musharraf in troubled waters

muslima in cleveland — Fri, 01 Jun 2007 11:30:01 GMT

To all the people that are saying things like, "let the people decide if they want Musharraf", and "get the army out of power", etc. I agree...in a PERFECT world, it would be a total democracy, with one vote for one person, and majority rule. But it doesn't even work that way here in the U.S., does it? Does anybody remember that Bush LOST the popular vote, and that he's still the one sitting in the big chair? But back to my point....yes, in a perfect world, Pakistan [among other countries] would be a total democracy, and the army would stay out of politics. But it's NOT a perfect world, so let's deal with reality - in 1999, Pakistan was on the verge of political and financial collapse; the infrastructure was non existant, and there was no hope, and very little freedom for the population when Musharraf took power --- which by the way, was not his intent, he was basically told by his generals, after Sharif essentially tried to assasinate him, along with approximately 200+ innocent civilians, that he was now in charge. Since then, Musharraf has been doing his best to correct 50+ years of mis-management by past administrations. Is he making EVERYONE happy? No. Does EVERYONE have a job? No. Has he solved ALL the problems? No. Is it better than it was 10 years ago? YES! Currently, there are new roads, electrical grids, sewer systems, communications networks, freeways and railways being built in Pakistan. When the country separated from India, there was a huge migration towards this new nation, with little, or no thought given to day-to-day operations. Karachi [the biggest city, and main port] is nothing but a cluster of fishing villages that had a major metropolis thrown on top of them. It is chaotic at best. Pakistan is a third-world country that is frantically trying to catch up with modern technology and ideals. Pakistan is a country that has to be dragged kicking and screaming into 21st century democracy, and that is what is happening right now --- but at least with Musharraf at the helm, people have the RIGHT and the ABILITY to kick and scream publicly without being lined up at the edge of a pit and shot in the back. Pakistan is one of the only Islamic countries where you can walk around with a sign shouting "Go Musharraf Go". If you tried that in many other U.S.-allied countries such as Saudi Arabia, Jordan, etc....you would be dragged away on the spot - never to be heard from again. I do not envy President Musharraf's position. It would be much easier for him to be like most past Pakistani leaders - take the money and run. But he is sticking it out, taking the heat, and trying to do his best for his country. Is it "perfect"? Again, no. But it is the best we can hope for right now. As for those that say "let the people decide"..... They decided in Palestine [as is their right], and Hamas took power. So, okay.....let's have the Pakistani people decide, and then see who ends up with their finger on the Islamic nuclear button. If it were MY choice, I'd rather have that resposibility stay right where it is for now --- at least Musharraf thinks of repercussion in this life, rather than martyrdom in the next.

Musharraf in troubled waters

marty — Sat, 02 Jun 2007 10:55:40 GMT

The US suppost to be in the business of removing Dictators from power to transition to Democracy, Right. Did we sent troops to remove a dictator in Iraq? What a wise decision to give Musharaf $ 10 Billion to speed up the transition to Islamic state with Nuclear power. Allright Washington another fuck-up in the works, good job. Pakistan is going to the first Islamic state in control WMD..

Musharraf in troubled waters

Nasir Manzoor — Sat, 02 Jun 2007 14:02:09 GMT

There is no justification of bad actions so I doubt any body would agree Musharaf is perfect. No body is perfect and every body in power gets corrupted. But what really matters is how much of a good you are doing to the country. Musharaf by far have done the most good to Pakistan comparing to any previous rulers we ever had this comes from people who are living in Pakistan a working class folks. This guy has built our image to the rest of the world as a country who is trying to do better. It is sad to remember that when Nawaz Sharif was taken off the power Pakistan was on the verge of getting put on the list of “terrorist countries” and India was pushing hard that it does happen. You can just imagine what that would have done to Pakistanis already terribly poor economy. As far as Musharaf being buddy buddy with Bush is not by choice. We all can recall in 2001 US has already started dropping bombs in Pakistan territories killing several poor civilians even way before they attacked Afghanistan and we could do nothing about it because that was the time when Bush gave his very scary speech that “if you are not with us than you are against us”. So when a super power like US has blood on their eyes and they make a statement like this than to survive the only option you have is to be buddy buddy or else you can see what’s happening to Iraq. So in my opinion Mushraf is be best we ever had. He is not an angle but he is doing Pakistan and the rest of the world a greater good.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Nasir Yorktown VA — Sat, 02 Jun 2007 14:08:13 GMT

Muslima in Cleveland great job. I agree with u 100%.

Musharraf in troubled waters

marty — Sat, 02 Jun 2007 19:47:54 GMT

So much for Democracy and freedom of speech. This blog site sensors speech for just any little BS, and we are the freest on Earth. Getting to be a police state here shortly.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Pinky — Sat, 02 Jun 2007 20:35:50 GMT

There is a lot of confusion on this site by commentators. What is clear is that the US government needs to be sued in the US courts for propping up illegal regimes across the world.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Ali Kamal, Vancouver, BC — Sun, 03 Jun 2007 23:15:28 GMT

I have my serious doubts if the western style democracy can work in Pakistan where literacy rate is less than 25 percent. In my view the right to vote should be connected to a certain level of education of a voter, then perhaps peopl will be able to choose political candidates who are able and deserving. The politicans have failed in running the country when they had oppertunity. The politics in Pakistan is the politics of dynesties and politicians mostly come from feudal background.The weakness of political institutions resulted in several martial laws and millitary dictators grabing the power. So much so that now corps commander and the kingmakers of Pakistani politics. The second factor is that judiciary is not functioning with complete freedom, and have become a tool of a government, this is eating Pakistan from inside. Certain historic rulings by the supreme court such as, justifying the millitary rule on the basis of 'doctrine of nessesity', and also it msut not be forgotton that ex Prime minister Z A Bhutto was ordered to be hanged by the supreme court on the orders of General Zia ul Haq the then president. Not all judeges have been dishonest and have colluded with miliitary rulers or even the civilan presidents, those with high integrity and scruples simply resign from their post, an honoarable way to exit. The state of affairs is that, the Supreme courts has become an institution which has become subserviant to presidents, and the judges play in the hands of presidents, as I mentioned above those judesges who do not want to be a toy of the governement they reisgn or conditions are created that they are forced to resign. It was the usual situation which has become unusal in the case of justice Iftikhar Chudhary. President Musharf not liking the supreme court justice for whatever reasons, dismissed him like so many other judges who quietly disappear from the scene, but not he. Justce Iftikhar Chudhery stood up agaist his dismissal and decided to challenge Preisdent Musharf. This is posing a serious danger to Mushar's presidencey but my fear is what are the alternatives? I do not see any political party or politician who is well deserving to come and change the fate of this impovirished country.The fundamentalist parties whos influence and popularity is increasing and are hoping to make Pakistan a Taliban type country, if that happens Pakistan will certainly become a failed state. That is why I have suggested earlier that people should be educated in order to cast vote so they can make wise choice in elceting people.

Musharraf in troubled waters

Mekal Faruki, Sacramento, CA. — Mon, 04 Jun 2007 11:08:25 GMT

Democracy is not a cure all. Adolf Hitler and the NAZI party came to power through a democratic election. Does anyone dispute that fact or the horrendous outcome of democracy in that instance? I think not. The complaint that Musharraf should not be President and Chief of Staff at the same time because democratic states do not confer this authority in one person, bears no weight whatsoever. The U.S. President is both President and Commander in Chief of the U.S. military. Does anyone accuse the United States of being undemocratic, no I dont think so. The last accusation that civilians should control the military to avoid injustices, has received a resounding trip to the trash can. Does anyone believe the the civilian control of the U.S. Military resulted in the prevention of a wrongdoing, or is it true that the civilian control of the U.S. military resulted in the Iraq catastrophe? These ill conceived jingoistic political slogans do nothing to educate the public, far from it, they serve to deceive and confuse and cause great harm.