Embattled Pakistani president could go quietly
Talks are under way to avoid the looming impeachment of President Pervez Musharraf, with a resignation that includes legal immunity as a key option, an ally of Pakistan’s embattled leader confirmed.
Another option being floated is stripping down the presidency to a figurehead role, said Tariq Azim, a top official in the pro-Musharraf Pakistan Muslim League-Q party.
Asked if Mr Musharraf had decided to quit, Mr Azim said: “There are people who are advising him to avoid confrontation, but I don’t think he has made up his mind.”
Mr Musharraf dominated Pakistan for years after seizing power in a 1999 coup, gaining favour from the United States after supporting it in the war on terror.
His rivals won February parliamentary elections, forming a ruling coalition that has sought to push the former army chief out of office and has largely sidelined him.
Ruling coalition officials have said an impeachment motion could reach the Parliament as early as next week.
Mr Azim said people on all sides generally agreed an impeachment battle would strain the country at a time when it faces critical challenges, such as a sinking economy and an emboldened militant movement.
“It is at the moment that Pakistan cannot afford confrontation,” Mr Azim said.
“And it’s obvious that the present government and President Musharraf cannot get along. So it is in the best interest of Pakistan that some way is found whereby this mode of confrontation can be changed or can be more conciliatory.”
Mr Musharraf’s spokesman was not immediately available for comment.
