The setting up of a new political party is less unusual. There are after all an extraordinary number of parties, and factions of parties, on the scene, distinguished from each other by the initial attached at the end of their names. The All Pakistan Muslim League, launched in London by Musharraf, adds to the number. The former president has said all the right things, stating he wishes to use the new entity as a means to serve the people of his nation and to tackle poverty, corruption and other issues. We cannot as yet predict what the future of this party will be. Others also set up with what seemed like excellent intentions behind them quickly faded away into the background, managing at best to pick up a single seat, or maybe a few more, when it came to that crucial test of the polls. Musharraf in fact enters the political arena at a disadvantage. As head of state, from 1999 to 2008, he left behind problems that today present a huge threat to our nation. Despite claims to battle militancy, terrorism grew rapidly. The energy crisis that is now a constant part of our live worsened and mainstream parties were pushed into the background and attempts made to intervene in their working. This undoubtedly weakened our democracy.
Musharraf also does not quite say how he intends to solve problems. His tendency to fall back on the bombastic arrogance for which he became known for during his tenure is also still present, as has been apparent in some interviews. But only time will tell what the Pakistani electorate will think of his words and whether they forgive him for his past actions, were he to participate in the next election.
Published in The Express Tribune, October 3rd, 2010.
COMMENTS (3)
Comments are moderated and generally will be posted if they are on-topic and not abusive.
For more information, please see our Comments FAQ