Gameplan for President Zardari

Political analyst Javed Chaudhry says the verdict was one step towards unseating President Zardari. "He is the real target of the SC, not PM Gilani," said Chaudhry.

Political analyst Javed Chaudhry says the verdict was one step towards unseating President Zardari. "He is the real target of the SC, not PM Gilani," said Chaudhry. Political analysts say since the NRO case continues to be heard in the SC, the sword still hangs on the head of Zardari.

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The general understanding is that both Gilani and Zardari are trying to buy time ahead of elections expected to be announced in late 2012 or early 2013. Analyst Dr Shahid Masood said alliances could change ahead of the polls. The government argues that the president enjoys immunity and cannot be prosecuted.

The verdict has helped Gilani politically. Within hours of the announcement, shops and businesses in his hometown of Multan shut down.