From AP via the Guardian
President Musharraf of Pakistan has refused to step down from his position as chief of the army, as he had previously promised he would. However, international reaction, particularly from Washington, has been very subdued.
The general came to power in a bloodless coup in 1999 and has been promising to give more democracy to his country ever since. However he has now arranged to be able to stay as President and General until at least 2007. Musharraf has said his decision to renege on his promise will ensure stability in government policies including his support of the U.S.-led war against terrorism.
My view? This step, unless condemned loudly by the US and Britain, will be seen as happening with the complicity of the Bush and Blair administrations. Many will feel that the hypocritical posturings of the "Coalition of the Willing" are being exposed here, and it will further increase international ill-will against what is seen as the Empire building of the Bush/Blair axis. Others will see a precedent in Pakistan's mix of 'parliament and dictator' for a possible Iraq election scenario where regional elections go ahead but presidential and national elections are delayed. This would allow appointees of the occupying powers to remain in place for the forseeable future, and certainly for the "four more years" of the Bush presidency.
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