Disadvantage Musharraf | Latest News India - Hindustan Times
close_game
close_game

Disadvantage Musharraf

None | By
Feb 08, 2007 12:28 AM IST

The latest suicide bombing in Islamabad, apparently targeted at Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz, is yet another indication of President Pervez Musharraf?s growing unpopularity.

The latest suicide bombing in Islamabad, apparently targeted at Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz, is yet another indication of President Pervez Musharraf’s growing unpopularity. Mr Musharraf prides himself on his ability to walk the political tightrope. But even he seems unable to deal with the serious internal problems he faces today. The political parties, at present, are not in a position to do him any significant damage. But, there are rumblings of unrest in the Pakistani army over his attempts to stay on in power even if it means extending the life of the National Assembly by a year through imposing emergency. He has also played a dangerous game by signing several controversial peace deals with tribal militants. They are united in their opposition to his cosying up to Washington, especially in the light of the airstrikes that the Americans have carried out against militants in the border areas. All this is bad news for the peace process between India and Pakistan. With the joint anti-terror mechanism due to meet on March 6, can we expect any progress? As things are at present, we cannot get our expectations up.

HT Image
HT Image

The main reason is that no one seems sure who is calling the shots in the Pakistani political establishment. Mr Musharraf expresses helplessness when confronted with the export of terror into India. Yet, at other times, he tries to convey the impression that he is fully in control. It is no secret that the shadowy Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), of which sections are deeply fundamentalist, has a significant say in the course of Pakistan’s politics, especially dealings with India. Mr Musharraf knows that he cannot spin out the America card indefinitely. The Americans have been openly critical of him, with top officials like intelligence chief John Negroponte openly alluding to Pakistan being a safe haven for terrorism. His best bet would be to try and strengthen democratic institutions and processes.

Hindustan Times - your fastest source for breaking news! Read now.

The Pakistani economy is doing fairly well and Mr Musharraf should capitalise on this. Seven years after he took over power, he should endeavour to take a back seat and give Pakistan a system of governance that will bring lasting benefits to the people. Unfortunately, he does not appear to be able to get beyond his own petty concerns. This could have disastrous consequences for Pakistan.

Unveiling Elections 2024: The Big Picture', a fresh segment in HT's talk show 'The Interview with Kumkum Chadha', where leaders across the political spectrum discuss the upcoming general elections. Watch now!

Get Current Updates on India News, Election 2024, Mukhtar Ansari Death News Live, Bihar Board 10th Result 2024 Live along with Latest News and Top Headlines from India and around the world.
SHARE THIS ARTICLE ON
Share this article
SHARE
Story Saved
Live Score
OPEN APP
Saved Articles
Following
My Reads
Sign out
New Delhi 0C
Saturday, March 30, 2024
Start 14 Days Free Trial Subscribe Now
Follow Us On