The Hindu : International : Musharraf to remain as Army Chief

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Friday, Dec 31, 2004

International

International

Musharraf to remain as Army Chief

By B. Muralidhar Reddy

ISLAMABAD, DEC. 30. The Pakistan President, Pervez Musharraf, declared tonight that he had decided to retain the post of Army Chief till October 2007 in the "national interest" and for the continuation of "internal and external" policies.

In a 50-minute address on the state-run television and radio, Gen. Musharraf criticised the Opposition for not being "constructive and responsible." He said that his continuation as Army Chief was imperative to protect Pakistan's vital interests.

Even as he was delivering his speech, the Opposition parties were busy finalising plans to launch an agitation seeking the resignation of Gen. Musharraf. The mainstream Opposition under the umbrella of the Alliance for Restoration of Democracy and the religious parties on the platform of the Muttahida Majlis-e-Amal (MMA) came together after a considerable gap of time for a possible joint response to the announcement.

Divided house

The Opposition still appears to be divided on the nature of protest against Gen. Musharraf. While the ARD is in favour of fresh elections, the MMA, which rules two of the four provinces, is opposed to any plan that can lead to the dissolution of the National and provincial assemblies.

Gen. Musharraf's decision to retain uniform was widely anticipated particularly after Parliament adopted a Bill early this month empowering him to retain the posts of President and Army Chief.

Printer friendly page
Send this article to Friends by E-Mail

International