Musharraf Controversy

President Musharraf's lawyers made the statement that he "would step down from his army post...after the election but before taking the oath of office for a new five-year term." Musharraf's opponents question whether the president will keep his word. The Pakistan president verbally pledged in 2002 to resign as the army head but instead hastened parliament to pass an exemption until 2007. Musharraf's opponents believe his most recent statement does not necessarily claim he will step down as head of the army regardless of the election outcome. In order for a smooth transition to occur if Musharraf is not elected, it would probably be best for Pakistan if he step down from his military position as well. With Musharraf's history of instigating the last coup, instability would most likely follow if he chose to do it again. Although speculative, these are the valid worries of Musharraf's opponents. As a result, demands arose for the Supreme Court to overrule Musharraf's offer to step down from his military duties in exchange for his ability to run for president.  It will be interesting to see if Musharraf keeps his promise in the upcoming election, considering the negative response from his opponents and all the press covering the situation. We will keep you updated on developing political events in Pakistan surrounding Musharraf and how the U.S. reacts if he does what the opposition parties expect. To read more on Pakistan and U.S. involvement in the region, please read our report: "A Perilous Course." and come to our Pakistan event on Monday, here in DC.