Pervez Musharraf

Pervez Musharraf
‫پرویز مشّرف‬

President of Pakistan

In office
20 June 2001 – 18 August 2008

Zafarullah Khan Jamali

Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain
Prime Minister Shaukat Aziz
Muhammad Mian Soomro
Yousaf Raza Gillani

Preceded by Muhammad Rafiq Tarar

Succeeded by Muhammad Mian Soomro (Acting)

Chief Executive of Pakistan

In office
12 October 1999 – 21 November 2002

President Muhammad Rafiq Tarar

Preceded by Nawaz Sharif (Prime Minister)

Succeeded by Zafarullah Khan Jamali (Prime Minister)

Chief of Army Staff

 In office
6 October 1998 – 28 November 2007

Preceded by Jehangir Karamat

Succeeded by Ashfaq Parvez Kayani

11 August 1943 (1943-08-11) (age 66)

Born
Delhi, British India

Political party Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid

Spouse(s) Sehba Musharraf

Alma mater Forman Christian College

Profession Soldier

Religion Islam

Military service

Service/branch Pakistan Army (PA – 6920)

Years of service 1964–2007

Rank General

Unit Corps of Artillery (16 SP)

40th Infantry Division (Okara)

DG Military Operations (DGMO)
I Strike Corps (Mangla)
Commands
Chief of Army Staff
Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff
Committee

Indo-Pakistani War of 1965

Indo-Pakistani War of 1971
Siachen conflict
Battles/wars
Kargil War
2001–2002 India–Pakistan standoff
War in North-West Pakistan
 Tamgha-e-Basalat
Awards Hilal-e-Imtiaz (Military)
Nishan-e-Imtiaz (Military)

General (ret) Pervez Musharraf (Urdu: ‫( )پرویز مشرف‬born 11 August 1943), NI(M), TBt, is a
Pakistani politician and military figure who served as the tenth President of Pakistan (2001–
2008) and the Chief of Army Staff of the Pakistan Army (1998–2007).[1].
He took power on 12 October 1999, following a nonviolent military coup d'état and subsequent
ouster of the government of Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. The military-led government stated its
intention to restructure the political, economic and electoral systems. On May 12, 2000,
Pakistan's 12 member Supreme Court unanimously validated the October 1999 coup and granted
Musharraf executive and legislative authority for 3 years from the coup date[2] endorsing his
governance.[3][4]
On 18 August 2008, Pervez Musharraf resigned from the post of President under impeachment
pressure from the coalition government. He was succeeded on 6 September 2008 by Asif Ali
Zardari duly elected as Pakistan's 11th President.

Contents
• 1 Early life
• 2 Military career
○ 2.1 Indo-Pakistani wars
○ 2.2 Role in Kargil Conflict
• 3 Presidency
○ 3.1 Military coup d'état
○ 3.2 Foreign policy
 3.2.1 Support for the War on Terror
 3.2.2 Relations with India
 3.2.2.1 2001 Gujarat Earthqauke of India
 3.2.3 Richard Armitage comments
 3.2.4 Nuclear proliferation
 3.2.5 Space Program
 3.2.6 Relations with China
 3.2.7 Relations with Saudi Arabia
○ 3.3 Musharraf nominated for 2004 Nobel Peace Prize
○ 3.4 Domestic issues
 3.4.1 2002 elections
 3.4.2 Denunciation of extremism
 3.4.3 Assassination attempts
  3.4.4 2004 confidence vote
 3.4.5 Economy
 3.4.5.1 Poverty alleviation
 3.4.5.2 Education
 3.4.6 Women's Rights
 3.4.7 Ethnic Minorities Rights
 3.4.8 Corruption issues
 3.4.9 Suspension and reinstatement of the Chief Justice
 3.4.10 Lal Masjid siege
 3.4.11 Relations with Benazir Bhutto
 3.4.12 Resignation from the Army
 3.4.13 Return of Nawaz Sharif
 3.4.14 2007 presidential elections
○ 3.5 Emergency declared in Pakistan
○ 3.6 Pakistani general election, 2008
○ 3.7 Impeachment movement and resignation
○ 3.8 Approval ratings
• 4 Life after Presidency
○ 4.1 Article 6 trial
○ 4.2 Cases
• 5 Legacy
• 6 See also
• 7 Notes
• 8 Books
• 9 External links

Early life
Pervez Musharraf was born on August 11,1943 in Nehar Wali Haveli meaning "House Next to
the Canal", situated in Kacha Saad Ullah Mohallah, Daryaganj in Delhi, British India,[5] and
stems from a family of government servants. After Musharraf's grandfather, Qazi
Mohtashimuddin, retired as the Deputy Collector of Revenue based in Dehli[6], he acquired
Neharwali Haveli in the old walled city of Delhi where Musharraf was born.
The haveli, with its high roofs and arches, and is believed to have been previously the home of a
"Wazir" (Minister) in the court of Bahadur Shah Zafar — the last Mughal emperor of the 19th
century.[7]
After independence of Pakistan, Musharraf's family migrated to Pakistan where his father, Syed
Musharraf Uddin — a graduate of Aligarh University — joined the Pakistan Foreign Office as an
Accountant, and ultimately retired as a Director[6].
Musharraf's mother, Zarin, received her master's degree from the University of Lucknow in 1944
and supplemented the recently immigrated family's income to support the education of her
children[6]. She recently retired from a United Nations agency in Islamabad.
He revealed in his memoirs that he was critically injured after falling from a mango tree as a
teenager, and he considers this his first direct experience with death.[6]
Musharraf attended Saint Patrick's School, Karachi, graduating in 1958, later attending Forman
Christian College in Lahore and is said to have been good in mathematics during his academic
life.
Musharraf is married to Sehba, who is from Okara. They have a son, Bilal, who was a graduate
student at Stanford University and currently works in Silicon Valley, and a daughter, Ayla Raza,
who works as an architect in Karachi.
Military career

In 1961, he entered the Pakistan Military Academy at Kakul, graduating 11th in his class. He
was commissioned on April 19, 1964 in the Artillery Regiment. Later he joined the Special
Services Group and was posted to Field Artillery Regiments. A graduate of the Command and
Staff College, Quetta, and the National Defence College, Rawalpindi, Musharraf is also a
graduate of the Royal College of Defence Studies of the United Kingdom. Musharraf revealed in
his memoirs that in 1965 he was charged with taking unauthorized leave and was about to be
court-martialed for it, but was excused due to the war with India.[6]
Indo-Pakistani wars
Indo-Pakistani wars and conflicts
Musharraf participated in the Indo-Pakistani War of 1965 as a 2nd Lieutenant in the 16 (SP)
Field Artillery Regiment. His regiment saw action as part of the First Armoured Division’s
offensive in the Khemkaran sector; as part of a major offensive against the Indian Army, the
Pakistani army advanced 15 miles (24 km) into India and it was in the town of Khem Karan that
Musharraf wrote his first letter to his mother during the war "proudly saying that I was writing
from India".[6] By all accounts the vital advance failed at the Battle of Asal Uttar, as Pakistan lost
a golden opportunity to make major strategic gains; this was a turning point in the war.[8][9] His
regiment was later moved to the Lahore front, which was threatened by the Indian Army.
According to Musharraf, "Having stabilized the Lahore front, we were ordered to move again to
the Sialkot front. This was where the famous tank battles of Chawinda were fought. At the end of
the war this sector was to become a graveyard of Indian tanks.".[10] During the war Musharraf
was noted for sticking to his post under shellfire.[11] Towards the end of the war an Indian shell
hit one of the artillery guns of Musharraf's unit and set it on fire. According to Musharraf, whilst
everyone else took cover, he, followed by a soldier, "dashed to the blazing gun" and removed the
"hot shells" one by one and "threw them to safety on the ground". For this he received an award
for gallantry and was promoted to the rank of captain.[10]
Later, in the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971, he served as a Company Commander in the Special
Service Group (SSG) Commando Battalion. Originally scheduled to be flown to East Pakistan
along with other SSG troops, he was redeployed in Punjab as war broke out and all flights over
India were cancelled. He later admitted that he "broke down and wept"[6] when he heard the
"disgusting" news of Pakistan's unconditional surrender to India.[12] Later he commanded
regiments of artillery, an Artillery Brigade and then an infantry division. In September 1987, he
was instrumental in giving orders to a newly formed SSG at Khapalu base (Kashmir), which
launched an assault and successfully captured two intermediate posts, Bilafond La in Siachen
Glacier, before being pushed back.[13]
On promotion to the rank of Major General on 15 January 1991, he was assigned the command
of an infantry Division. Later, on promotion to Lieutenant General on 21 October 1995 he took
over command of 1 Corps, the elite strike corps. In 1998, following the resignation of General
Jehangir Karamat, he was personally promoted over other senior officers by Prime Minister
Nawaz Sharif and took over as the Army Chief of Staff and Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff
Committee.
Role in Kargil Conflict
Kargil War
From May to July 1999, Pakistan and India were involved in the Kargil Conflict, an armed
conflict between the two countries in the Kargil district of Kashmir. It was planned and executed
during General Musharraf's term as the Pakistani Army Chief of Staff under Prime Minister
Sharif.
Sharif has claimed that Musharraf was solely responsible for the Kargil attacks.[14] On the other
hand, Musharraf claims that the decision was made by Sharif, who was under United States
pressure. Ex-CENTCOM Commander Anthony Zinni, and Sharif, have stated that Musharraf
requested that the Prime Minister withdraw Pakistani troops from Kashmir.[15]
Casualties on both sides had been particularly heavy in Kargil.[16] Musharraf had good relations
with Jehangir Karamat from whom he took over the command. Soon after the coup, one of the
first to be appointed as minister was journalist Maleeha Lodhi who was close to Jehangir
Karamat. Also recruited was Shaukat Aziz (who served as the country's Prime Minister later)
who volunteered to improve the economy. Western banks rescheduled Pakistani loans, which
had been subjected to economic sanctions since Pakistan conducted atomic testing.
Pervez Musharraf resigned from the Army on 28 November 2007 in an attempt to regularize his
position as President.[17]
Presidency
Military coup d'état
1999 Pakistani coup d'état
Musharraf became de facto Head of Government (using the title Chief Executive and assuming
extensive powers) of Pakistan following a bloodless coup d'état on 12 October 1999. That day,
Sharif attempted to dismiss Musharraf and install Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) Director
Ziauddin Butt in his place. Musharraf, who was out of the country, boarded a commercial airliner
to return to Pakistan. Senior army generals refused to accept Musharraf's dismissal, which was
deemed unconstitutional by the Supreme Court.
Sharif ordered the Karachi airport closed to prevent the landing of the airliner, which then circled
the skies over Karachi. In the coup, the Generals ousted Sharif's administration and took over the
airport. The plane landed, allegedly with only a few minutes of fuel to spare, and Musharraf
assumed control of the government. Sharif was put under house arrest and later exiled to Saudi
Arabia, where he resided until he returned again to Pakistan on 25 November 2007.
He and other leaders have subsequently been prevented from entering Pakistan. Although the
disagreement between Musharraf and Sharif started from the day Nawaz Sharif ordered
withdrawal of troops from Kargil it reportedly centred around the Prime Minister's desire to find
a diplomatic resolution to the conflict with India in the Kashmir region.[18]
The existing President of Pakistan, Rafiq Tarar, remained in office until June 2001. Musharraf
formally appointed himself President on 20 June 2001, just days before his scheduled visit to
Agra for talks with India.
Foreign policy
Support for the War on Terror

President Musharraf with President Bush.

Following the September 11, 2001 attacks, Musharraf sided with the United States against the
Taliban government in Afghanistan after an ultimatum by U.S. President George W. Bush.
Musharraf agreed to give the United States the use of three airbases for Operation Enduring
Freedom. United States Secretary of State Colin Powell and other Administration officials met
with Musharraf. On 19 September 2001, Musharraf addressed the people of Pakistan and stated
that, while he opposed military tactics against the Taliban, Pakistan risked being endangered by
an alliance of India and the U.S. if it did not cooperate.[19] In 2006, Musharraf testified that this
stance was pressured by threats from the U.S., and revealed in his memoirs that he had "war-
gamed" the United States as an adversary and decided that it would end in a loss for Pakistan.[20]
The leadership in Pakistan war-gamed the USA and NATO as an enemy and realized that it was
worthless committing suicide over the obstinate Taliban. Pakistan's stagnated economy had only
slightly started recovering, after being put in the HIPCs category, by the IMF and World Bank,
as one of the highest indebted poor countries. Galvanizing the whole nation into agreeing to fight
the USA and NATO was another impossible task. Indian eagerness to join the War on Terror
was an alarming condition that Pakistan could not have overlooked. Indian jets flying over
Pakistan's space, with the strategic assets lying below, were a suicidal recipe. An accidental
Indian bomb dropped on the Kahuta plant would have created disaster.[39]. Pakistan drew up
plans to secure its NWFP border along Afghanistan. Around 80,000 troops were placed to patrol
and were assigned specific targets.
Relations with India
Musharraf was Chief of Army Staff at the time of Mujahideen incursions into India from
Pakistan-administered Kashmir in the summer of 1999. Although Pakistan claimed that these
were Kashmiri freedom fighters based in Indian-controlled Kashmir, later developments showed
that they were Pakistani paramilitary soldiers backing up the separatists on the mountain top.
After fierce fighting, Pakistani soldiers were pulled back due to pressure from the international
community.
However, in Battle Ready, a book co-authored by ex-CENTCOM Commander in Chief Anthony
Zinni and novelist Tom Clancy, the former alleges that Musharraf was the one who pushed
Sharif to withdraw the Pakistani troops after being caught in a losing scenario.[21] According to
an ex-official of the Musharraf government, Hassan Abbas, Musharraf planned the whole
operation and sold the idea to Sharif.[22] The view that Musharraf wanted to attempt the Kargil
infiltrations much earlier was also revealed by Bhutto in an interview with a leading daily
newspaper, where he had supposedly boasted that "he would hoist the flag of Pakistan atop the
Srinagar Assembly" if his plan was executed.[23] Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) (PML(N)), a
leading Pakistan party added that Musharraf had planned the Kargil intrusions but panicked
when the conflict broke out with India and decided to alert Sharif.[24] Since the Kargil incident
occurred just after the Lahore Peace Summit earlier that year, Musharraf is often regarded with
scepticism in India.[25][26]
In the middle of 2004, Musharraf began a series of talks with India to solve the Kashmir dispute.
Both leaders also discussed the following issues: Wullar Barrage and Kishangaga power project,
Baglihar Dam on the Chenab River being built by India in Jammu and Kashmir, disputed Sir
Creek estuary at the mouth of the Rann of Kutch, Siachin glacier, issues of Gurdaspur and
Ferozepur's status, minority rights, Indian contentions that Pakistan is sponsoring "cross-border"
terrorism.
In 2007, Musharraf stated, after a meeting with Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, that the
current push to normalize relations between the two states is "irreversible."
2001 Gujarat Earthqauke of India
Pakistan President Pervez Mushrraf sent a plane load of relief supplies to India from Islamabad
to Ahmedabad[27]that carried 200 tents and more than 2,000 blankets .[28].Furthermore, the
President called Indian PM to express his sympathy over the loss from the earthquake.[29]
Richard Armitage comments
During a 24 September 2006 interview with Steve Kroft on 60 Minutes, Musharraf said that
then-U.S. Deputy Secretary of State Richard Armitage had called Musharraf's intelligence
director shortly following the 9/11 attacks and threatened military action if Pakistan did not
support the U.S.-led "war on terror". According to Musharraf, Armitage warned: "Be prepared to
be bombed. Be prepared to go back to the Stone Age."[30] Furthermore, during an interview with
Jon Stewart of The Daily Show on 26 September 2006, Musharraf stated that then-Secretary of
State Colin Powell also contacted him with a similar message: "You are with us or against us."
Musharraf refused to elaborate further, citing the then-upcoming release of his book, In the Line
of Fire: A Memoir (ISBN 0-7432-8344-9). Armitage has, however, categorically denied that he
had used such harsh words to threaten Pakistan, saying instead that on 12 September 2001 he had
told Pakistan's top intelligence official that Pakistan would have to decide whether it was with or
against the U.S. in its efforts against al-Qaida and the Taliban. In Armitage's words, "It would be
completely out of character for me to threaten the use of military force when I was not
authorized to do so. I don't command aircraft and could not make good on such a threat."[31] In a
22 September 2006 joint news conference with Musharraf, U.S. President George W. Bush said,
"I don't know of any conversation that was reported in the newspaper like that."[32]
Nuclear proliferation
Pakistan and weapons of mass destruction
As President, Musharraf had promoted Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan as his "special scientific
adviser". One of the most widely-reported controversies during Musharraf's administration arose
as a consequence of the disclosure of nuclear proliferation by Dr. Abdul Qadeer Khan, the
metallurgical engineer known as the father of Pakistan's bomb. Musharraf has denied knowledge
of or participation by Pakistan's government or army in this proliferation and has faced bitter
domestic criticism for singularly vilifying Khan, a former national hero. Khan has been pardoned
in exchange for cooperation in the investigation, but is still under house arrest.[33] After
Musharraf's resignation, dr. Khan was released from House arrest by the supreme court's order.
Space Program
Musharraf was eager for the Pakistan to lead the way in the space race. He was one of the few
leaders of Pakistan to authorized space-development projects in Pakistan. Musharraf also unfroze
Pakistan's Space program which was last frozen in 1996. In 1999, when Dr. A. Q. Khan met with
him, he quickly authorized SUPARCO to developed its first domestically build earth
observational satellite. Musharraf also established a separated fund for SUPARCO to developed
its high-powered HRLV, SLV, PSLV projects. According to the media, all these project will be
launch from Pakistan in 2012, but the SUPARCO has not confirmed yet. In 2005, President
Musharraf outlined his vision for SUPARCO by laying down a clearly defined agenda for the
national space agency to pursue and deliver in minimum time. Musharraf had made it clear that:
"Pakistan would need to catch up to the world space leaders and make up for lost time and
neglect in the past and future".
Musharraf had authorised renewed research and development on an indigenous launch capability
that would be able to put into orbit a domestically built satellite, Paksat-1R. In his [Musharraf]
book, In the Line of Fire: A Memoir, Musharraf has expressed his desired that "SUPARCO has
suffered severe economic and global sanctions. Musharraf has expressed his desired that
"SUPARCO has suffered severe economic and global sanctions but in future Pakistan will send
its satellites from its soil".
Relations with China
Musharraf accused Western leaders and media of politicizing the 2008 Summer Olympics by
criticizing China's human rights record and its policy in Tibet. He also said he would cooperate
with China, which is a historical ally to Pakistan, in the fight against terrorism.[34].
President Musharraf was internally Pro-China and kept the strategic relations intact. During
President Musharraf’s government, China for the first time allowed a Pakistani president access
to one of its most advanced and secret military research facilities.[citation needed]
Relations with Saudi Arabia
Pakistan’s relationship with Saudi Arabia continues to grow. After his coup in October 1999,
Riyadh was the first foreign capital General Pervez Musharraf visited, to signify the importance
he gave to PAK-Saudi relations.
King Abdullah's first visit to Pakistan in 2006 as ruler, he was welcomed at the airport by both
President Pervez Musharraf and Prime Minister Shawkat Aziz, a reflection of the strong ties
between the two nations. Hundreds of thousands of Pakistanis lined the road from the airport to
welcome the Saudi King. President Musharraf and the Saudi King, take a common stand on the
war on terror and expanding trade ties, as well as international issues such as Kashmir, the
Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Iraq, Iran’s nuclear program, Afghanistan and reform of the
Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC). President Musharraf honored King Abdullah by
conferring upon him Pakistan’s highest civil award, Nishan-e-Pakistan, in a colorful investiture
ceremony at the presidential palace.[35]
On 21 Jan 2007, the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah conferred the King
Abdul Aziz Medallion, the Kingdom’s top honor, on Pakistani President Gen. Pervez Musharraf
during a ceremony at his palace in Riyadh.[36]. The first Pakistani leader ever to receive this
highest Saudi honor.

Musharraf nominated for 2004 Nobel Peace Prize

In 2004, the President of Pakistan, General Pervez Musharraf was nominated in the final list of
hopefuls for that year's prestigious Nobel Peace Prize, which totals 194 candidates, as annonced
by the Nobel Institute. It is not the very first time that a suggestion of awarding the Noble Peace
Prize to President Musharraf has been made from such an important quarter but seeing the very
clear role being played by the Pakistani President in fighting terrorism against Al Qaeda and
other extremist groups within Pakistan, several important figures and organisations have also
begun supporting General Musharraf as the strongest entrant for the Noble Peace Prize.[37]
Domestic issues
2002 elections
Shortly after Musharraf's takeover, several people filed court petitions challenging his
assumption of power. However, he got The Oath of Judges Order 2000 issued. It required the
judges to take a fresh oath of office swearing allegiance to military rule and to state they would
make no decisions against the military. Many judges refused and resigned in protest. On 12 May
2000, the Supreme Court asked Musharraf to hold national elections by 12 October 2002;
elections for local governments took place in 2001.
In an attempt to legitimize his presidency and assure its continuance after the approaching
restoration of democracy, he held a referendum on 30 April 2002[38] to extend his term to five
years after the October elections. The voter turnout was 80 percent by most estimates, amidst
claims of irregularities. A few weeks later, Musharraf went on TV and apologized to the nation
for "irregularities" in the referendum[39].
In August 2002, he passed the Legal Framework Order which provided for the general elections
of 2002 and the revival of the 1973 Constitution, but added numerous amendments to the
Constitution. The Supreme Court rejected part of the Order.
General elections were held in October 2002 and a plurality of the seats in the Parliament was
won by the Pakistan Muslim League (Q) (PML-Q), a pro-Musharraf party. It formed a majority
coalition with independents and allies such as the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM).
However, parties opposed to Musharraf effectively paralysed the National Assembly for over a
year. The following month, Musharraf handed over certain powers to the newly elected
Parliament. The National Assembly elected Mir Zafarullah Khan Jamali as Prime Minister, who
in turn appointed his own cabinet.
In December 2003, Musharraf made a deal with Muttahida Majlis-e-Amal, a six-member
coalition of Islamic parties, agreeing to leave the army by 31 December 2004. With that party's
support, pro-Musharraf legislators were able to muster the two-thirds supermajority required to
pass the Seventeenth Amendment, which retroactively legalized Musharraf's 1999 coup and
many of his decrees. In late 2004, Musharraf went back on his agreement with the MMA and
pro-Musharraf legislators in the Parliament passed a bill allowing Musharraf to keep both
offices. Constitution Article 63 clause (1) paragraph (d), read with proviso to Article 41 clause
(7) paragraph (b), allows the President to hold dual office.
Denunciation of extremism
On 12 January 2002, Musharraf gave a landmark speech against Islamic extremism, a few
months after September 11. He unequivocally condemned all acts of terrorism and pledged to
combat Islamic extremism and lawlessness within Pakistan itself. He vowed, the government
was committed to root out extremism and made it clear that the banned militant organizations
would not be allowed to resurface under any new name.He stressed, "the recent decision to ban
extremist groups promoting militancy was taken in the national interest after thorough
consultations. It was not taken under any foreign influence".[40]
In 2002, the Musharraf-led government, took a firm stand against the jihadi organizations and
groups promoting extremism, and arrested Maulana Masood Azhar, head of the Jaish-i-
Mohammad, and Hafiz Saeed, chief of the Lashkar-i-Taiba, and took dozens of activists into
custody. An official ban was imposed on the groups on January 12.[41]
At the same time as banning foreign funding of Islamic educational institutions, he made it
compulsory for them to teach a whole host of additional subjects such as computing. This meant
that many had to close due to the halt of funds from Pakistanis working abroad resulting in not
being able to teach the additional subjects that he had made compulsory. Musharraf also
instituted prohibitions on foreign students' access to studying Islam within Pakistan, an effort
which began as an outright ban but was later reduced to restrictions on obtaining visas.[42]
In 2004, he proposed "Enlightened Moderation" as an alternative to Islamic fundamentalism. On
18 September 2005, Musharraf made a historic speech before a broad based audience of Jewish
leadership, sponsored by the American Jewish Congress's Council for World Jewry, in New
York City.[43] In the speech, he denounced terrorism and opened the door to relationships
between Pakistan and Israel, as well as between the Muslim world and Jews worldwide. He was
widely criticized by Middle Eastern Arab leaders and Muslim clerics, but was met with some
praise among Jewish leadership.[44]
On 13 September 2007, 300 Pakistani troops were captured by Islamic militants. Terrorists then
bombed Musharraf's own SSG unit, killing 16, and launched rocket attacks in the North-West
Frontier province and Tribal areas.
Musharraf has been met by criticism. Zahid Hussain, Pakistan's correspondent for the Times of
London, the Wall Street Journal, and Newsweek and political correspondent for the Karachi-
based monthly Newsline said in 2007 that despite Musharraf delivering to the United States,
where Al Qaeda was concerned, he did in fact do nothing to eliminate extremism from the
Pakistani society or to curb the activities of the Taliban. This is very natural, he said, because
since 1994 Pakistan has very actively backed the Taliban and the military itself has Taliban
sympathizers. Hussain also said that Musharraf was also criticized for his contradictory
statements and, through which he sought to get support from both the Western allies as well as
the islamist militants. Musharraf also "never took any action against those madrassas that
preached hatred" and have been involved in fueling extremism. Hussain said that Musharraf did
talk a lot about it and whenever there was pressure from abroad, he would announce some
measures but these were not followed by any implementation. In other words, Hussain said, he
failed to understand that one can not develop a moderate Muslim society unless the root cause of
extremism is completely eliminated.[45]
Assassination attempts
In 2000 Kamram Atif, allegedly a member of Harkat-ul Mujahideen al-Alami, tried to
assassinate Musharraf. Atif was sentenced to death in 2006 by an Anti Terrorism Court.
On 14 December 2003, Musharraf survived an assassination attempt when a powerful bomb
went off minutes after his highly-guarded convoy crossed a bridge in Rawalpindi. It was the third
such attempt during his four-year rule. On 25 December 2003, two suicide bombers tried to
assassinate Musharraf, but their car bombs failed to kill him; 16 others nearby died instead.[46]
Musharraf escaped with only a cracked windscreen on his car. Militant Amjad Farooqi was
apparently suspected of being the mastermind behind these attempts, and was killed by Pakistani
forces in 2004 after an extensive manhunt.
On 6 July 2007, there was another attempted assassination, when an unknown group fired a 7.62
submachine gun at Musharraf's plane as it took off from a runway in Rawalpindi. Security also
recovered 2 anti-aircraft guns, from which no shots had been fired.[47] On 17 July 2007, Pakistani
police detained 39 people in relation to the attempted assassination of Musharraf.[48] They were
detained at an undisclosed location by a joint team of Punjab Police, the Federal Investigation
Agency and other Pakistani intelligence agencies.[49]
On 8 October 2007, a military helicopter escorting President Musharraf, on his visit to the
earthquake-affected areas on its second anniversary, crashed near Muzaffarabad, killing four
people, including a brigadier. The Puma helicopter crashed at Majohi near Garhi Dupatta in
Azad Kashmir at 11:15 am due to technical fault. Those killed included Brigadier Zahoor
Ahmed, Naik Ajmal, Sepoy Rashid and PTV cameraman Muhammad Farooq, while President’s
Media Advisor Maj Gen (R) Rashid Qureshi sustained injuries. Twelve people were on board the
helicopter.[50]
2004 confidence vote
PML-Q led government with the help of the religious parties the MMA, secured 2/3 majority in
National assembly and Senate and constitionally validated Musharraf's election.
On 1 January 2004 Musharraf had won a confidence vote in the Electoral College of Pakistan,
consisting of both houses of Parliament and the four provincial assemblies. Musharraf received
658 out of 1170 votes, a 56 percent majority, but many opposition and Islamic members of
parliament walked out to protest the vote. As a result of this vote, according to Article 41(8) of
the Constitution of Pakistan, Musharraf was "deemed to be elected" to the office of President.
His term was extended to 2007.
Prime Minister Zafarullah Khan Jamali resigned on 26 June 2004, after losing the support of the
PML(Q). His resignation was at least partly due to his public differences with the party chairman
Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain, and was rumoured to have happened at Musharraf's command,
although neither man has confirmed this. Jamali had been appointed with the support of
Musharraf's and the pro-Musharraf PML(Q). Most PML(Q) parliamentarians formerly belonged
to the Pakistan Muslim League party led by Sharif, and most ministers of the cabinet were
formerly senior members of other parties, joining the PML(Q) after the elections upon being
offered powerful offices. It is believed that Musharraf replaced Jamali due to his poor
performance and in his place Musharraf nominated Shaukat Aziz, the minister for finance and a
former employee of Citibank[51] and head of Citibank Private Banking as the new prime minister.
Economy
In 1999, under Nawaz Sharif, Revenue generation of around Rs.308 billion could not meet the
growing expenditure requirements; with only an average of Rs.80 billion being spent on Public
sector development programs (PSDP) annually, and no visible project to boast about. From this
Rs.308 billion around 65% was being utilized for debt servicing. In 1988 Pakistan’s foreign debt
was $18 billion, but at the end of 1999 it had accumulated to become $38 billion. A 100%
increased burden on the already crippled economy. Public and external debt exceeded 300% of
Foreign exchange earnings.[52]
Musharraf then appointed Shaukat Aziz, a former Citibank executive, as finance minister.
Profile: Shaukat Aziz - BBC News
Pakistan's Economic Comparison 1999 to 2007
• Pakistan’s economy grew by 100% — to become $ 160 billion
• Revenue grew by 100% — to become $ 11.4 billion
• Per Capita income grew by 100% — to become $ 925
• Foreign Reserves grew by 500% — to become $ 17 billion
• Exports grew by 100% — to become $ 18.5 billion
• Textile exports grew by 100% — to become $ 11.2 billion
• Karachi Stock Exchange grew by 500% — to become $ 75 billion
• Foreign Direct Investment grew by 500% — to become $ 8.4 billion
• Annual Debt servicing decreased by 35% — to become 26%
• Poverty decreased by 10% — to become 24%
• Literacy ratio grew by 10% — to become 54%
• Public development Funds grew by 100% — to become Rs 520 billion[53][54][55][56][57][58]
The vision and policies helped Pakistan come out of the list of Highly Indebted Poor Countries
(HIPC) while setting it on path of prosperity, growth and economic reforms. The world financial
institutions like the World Bank[59] and IMF[60] and ADB[61] have been praising Pakistan for its
reforms, fiscal policies and macro-economic achievements.
Poverty alleviation
Pakistan show tremendous reduction in poverty during the period 2000 - 2007. According
official figures, the poverty level dropped from 34% to 24% and the overall living standard
improves dramatically.[62][63]
Education
Under Musharraf's tenure, Pakistan saw exceptional setup of 47 universities, including Virtual
University, under the supervision of Higher Education Commission.[64] Most of the universities
were of international standards.
Pakistan now has a total of 245,682 educational institutions in all categories, including 164,579
(i.e. 67 percent) in the public sector and 81,103 (i.e. 100 percent) in the private sector, reports the
National Education Census (NEC-2005). The census — jointly conducted by the Ministry of
Education, the Academy of Educational Planning and Management (AEPAM) and the Federal
Bureau of Statistics (FBS) — reveals that the number of private-sector institutions has increased
from 36,096 in 1999-2000 to 81,103 in 2005, i.e. by 100 percent. 45,007 Educational Institutions
have increased in Musharraf Era.[65]
Women's Rights
The National Assembly voted in favor of the “Women's Protection Bill” on 15 November 2006
and the Senate approved it on 23 November 2006. President General Pervez Musharraf signed
into law the “Women's Protection Bill”, on 1 December 2006. The bill places rape laws under the
penal code and allegedly does away with harsh conditions that previously required victims to
produce four male witnesses and exposed the victims to prosecution for adultery, if they were
unable to prove the crime.[66] However, the Women's Protection bill has been criticized heavily
by many for paying continued lip service and failing to address the actual problem by its' roots:
repealing the Hudood Ordinance. In this context, Musharraf has also been criticized by women
and human rights activists for not following up his words by action.[67][68][69] The Human Rights
Commission of Pakistan (HRCP) said that "The so-called Women's Protection Bill is a farcical
attempt at making Hudood Ordinances palatable" outlining the issues of the bill and the
continued impact on women.[70]
His government increased reserved seats for women in assemblies, to increase women's
representation and make their presence more effective. Compared with 1988 seats in the National
Assembly were increased from 20 to 60. In provincial assemblies 128 seats were reserved for
women. This situation has brought out increase participation of women for 1988 and 2008
elections.[71]
Ethnic Minorities Rights
General Pervez Musharraf upon assuming power promised protection of the rights of religious
minorities and an end to the culture of religious intolerance. A Christian, Derick Cyprian, was
appointed as a federal minister and the government undertook to repeal all discriminatory laws.
There have been some positive developments in according basic rights to religious minorities,
although in real terms their impact has been nullified by the growth of extremism and intolerance
within the fabric of the society. General Musharraf has continued with his promise that religious
minorities will be protected, and there are limited signs that Christians, Hindus (and, to a lesser
extent, the Ahmaddiyas) are not being overtly discriminated against with regard to public
positions. In August 2005, Justice Rana Bhagwandas (a Hindu) was sworn in as acting Chief
Justice. Among noticeable positive steps taken by the military government are the declaration of
the abolition of separate electorates, apparent curbs on extremist and sectarian groups, and a
sense of inclusivity of all religious communities. The thaw in the relations with India allowed
greater influx of Hindu and Sikh pilgrims and, during 2004-5, the Punjab government allocated
funds to renovate the Krishna Mandir temple in Lahore. In addition, the Pakistani Constitution
reserves 10 national assembly seats for religious minorities.[72]
Corruption issues
When Musharraf came to power, he claimed that the corruption in the government bureaucracy
would be cleaned up.[73]. According to Transparency International, Pakistan has improved its
ratings under Musharraf's regime, from being the 11th most corrupt country to fall down to 41st.
In 2002, according to a survey by Transparency International, Pakistan’s rating improved from
11th most corrupt country in 2001 to 24th, according to a TI press release[74]
In 2007, according to Transparency International, Pakistan is clearly ranked 138th out of 179
countries. That places Pakistan as the 41st most corrupt country in 2007[75]
Suspension and reinstatement of the Chief Justice
On 9 March 2007, Musharraf suspended the Chief Justice of Pakistan, Justice Iftikhar
Muhammad Chaudhry, pressing corruption charges against him and filed a reference against the
Chief Justice, in the Supreme Judicial Council according to Article 209(2) and Article 209(5)(b)
of the Constitution of Pakistan. Thus on 13 March 2007, when the Supreme Judicial Council
met, it was headed by Acting Chief Justice Javed Iqbal.
Text of presidential reference against Chief Justice included:
1- There are complaints of orders being verbally announced in open court in favour of one party
and subsequently a written order at variance from the order announced in court being delivered.
Two such cases have acquired particular notoriety. In one of these two cases it is alleged that
amounts as large as Rs.55million may have been involved.
2- Chief Justice had intimidated civil servants, including pressuring an administrator, to
influence by his position to gain undue advantage by "insisting" on an increase and enhancement
in his entitlements or in securing the relaxation of the rules in that respect.
3- Chief Justice influenced government offices to promote his son's career. On 22 June 2005 Dr.
Arsalan Iftikhar was appointed as Medical Officer/Demonstrator in the Institute of Public Health,
Quetta.
4- Chief Justice Chaudhry had received hundreds of thousands of rupees for reimbursement of
gasoline for his car. The receipts he submitted were for a pump that only sold diesel fuel. Chief
Justice had claimed reimbursement for airfare for his wife and children when he was not entitled
to claim it.
5- Chief Justice had arranged for the allotment of a plot of land in Karachi to which he was not
entitled.
Musharraf's moves sparked protests among Pakistani lawyers. On 12 March 2007, lawyers
started Judicial Activism across Pakistan and began boycotting all court procedures in protest
against the suspension. In Islamabad, as well as other cities such as Lahore, Karachi and Quetta,
hundreds of lawyers dressed in black suits attended rallies, condemning the suspension as
unconstitutional. Slowly the expressions of support for the ousted Chief Justice gathered
momentum and by May, protesters and opposition parties took out huge rallies against Musharraf
and his tenure as army chief was also challenged in the courts.[76][77]
On 20 July, the Supreme Court reinstated Chaudhry. Delivering the court's verdict, presiding
Judge Khalil-ur-Rehman Ramday said: "The reference [against Mr Chaudhry] has been set aside
and the chief justice has been reinstated."[78]
"The president respects the decision of the Supreme Court," Gen Musharraf's spokesman was
quoted as saying by the state-run Associated Press of Pakistan. "The president has stated earlier
that any judgement the Supreme Court arrives at will be honoured, respected and adhered to," the
spokesman said.[78]
“I would like to emphasise that we must all accept the verdict with grace and dignity reflective of
a mature nation" Shaukat Aziz accepted Supreme Court verdict.[79] All Federal ministers and
senior Pakistan Muslim League leaders said the government had accepted the Supreme Court’s
verdict to reinstate the chief justice of Pakistan.[80]
PPP Co-chairman Asif Ali Zardari also has reportedly refused to reinstate the sacked chief
justice of Pakistan (CJP) Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry, apparently due to the fear that the latter,
if reinstated, might reopen for adjudication cases on the National Reconciliation Order. During a
meeting of leaders of the ruling coalition in Lahore on 23 July 2008, Zardari repeatedly insisted
on not reinstating Chaudhry, reported the Daily Times.[81]
Lal Masjid siege
The Musharraf government was forced to act against the Lal Masjid militants, after they formally
announced the establishment of a parallel judicial system. The pro-Taliban Lal Masjid
administration vowed to enforce Islamic laws in the federal capital and threatened to unleash a
wave of suicide bombers if the government took any action to counter it. “Our youth will commit
suicide attacks, if the government impedes the enforcement of the Sharia and attacks Lal Masjid
and its sister seminaries,” Maulana Abdul Aziz, the in-charge of the mosque said in his Friday
sermon. [40]
The standoff between the Pakistani government and the clerics of the Lal Masjid in Islamabad
finally broke down on the morning of 8 July 2007, when the official government delegation led
by Shujaat Hussain declared that the negotiations with the militants holed up in the mosque have
reached an agreement. However, the clerics refused to release the hostages as promised by them
in the agreement. Musharraf had given the militants some six months to lay down arms and abide
the law of country.
The government managed to recover 1,300 men, women and children during the operation. Some
of these women, who were recovered safely on the last day of the operation, had their written
death wishes with them. [41]. Six hundred suicide bombers are present in Karachi revealed
Qasim Toori and Danish alias Talha during interrogations by law-enforcement agencies. Most of
the suicide bombers are also former students of Islamabad’s Lal Masjid. [42]
Relations with Benazir Bhutto
Also on 8 August 2007, Benazir Bhutto spoke about her secret meeting with Musharraf on 27
July, in an interview on the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation.
On 14 September 2007, Deputy Information Minister Tariq Azim stated that Bhutto won't be
deported, but must face corruption suits against her. He clarified Sharif's and Bhutto's right to
return to Pakistan: "Nawaz Sharif's case was different. He went back to Saudi Arabia because of
an undertaking he had with the Saudi government; She (Bhutto) was always allowed to come
back." Pakistan People's Party Farhatullah Babar said that Benazir Bhutto will forthwith declare
the exact date of her return: "We are announcing the date of the return for Benazir Bhutto to
Pakistan at 5:00 p.m. (1200 GMT)" (Makhdoom Amin Fahim will publish it at a news
conference in Islamabad." Musharraf faced a rising militant violence, with a suicide bombing
killing 15 elite commandos on 13 September.[82] Bhutto declared her return from eight years exile
on 18 October. Makhdoom Amin Faheem, vice chair of Pakistan Peoples Party said that
"Benazir Bhutto will be landing in Karachi on 18 October."
On 17 September 2007, Bhutto accused Musharraf's allies of pushing Pakistan to crisis by refusal
to restore democracy and share power. Sheikh Rashid Ahmed stated that officials had agreed to
grant Benazir Bhutto amnesty in pending corruption charges.[83]
Musharraf called for a three day mourning period after Bhutto's assassination on 27 December
2007
Resignation from the Army
On 2 October 2007, Musharraf named Lt. Gen. Ashfaq Kayani as vice chief of the army starting
8 October. When Musharraf resigned from military on 28 November 2007, Kayani became Chief
of Army Staff.[83]
Return of Nawaz Sharif
Sharif returned to Pakistan in September 2007, and was immediately arrested and taken into
custody at the airport.[84]
Saudi intelligence chief Muqran bin Abdul Aziz Al Saud and Lebanese politician Saad Hariri
arrived separately in Islamabad on 8 September 2007, the former with a message from Saudi
King Abdullah and the latter after a meeting with Nawaz Sharif in London. After meeting
President General Pervez Musharraf for two-and-a-half hours, Prince Muqrin and Hariri
addressed an unprecedented joint press conference at Army House, telling journalists that
"Nawaz was bound under the agreement not to return to Pakistan before ten years in exile. We
sincerely hope that Nawaz Sharif honours this agreement,” Prince Muqrin said. Asked about the
details of the agreement, Prince Muqrin waved a copy of the agreement to the media and said: “It
is here and signed.” [43]
On arrival in Saudi Arabia, Nawaz Sharif was received by Prince Muqrin bin Abdul Aziz, the
Saudi intelligence chief, who had met Musharraf in Islamabad the previous day. That meeting
had been followed by a rare press conference, at which he had warned that Sharif should not
violate the terms of King Abdullah's agreement of staying out of politics for 10 years. [44]
2007 presidential elections
Main article: Pakistani presidential election, 2007
In a March 2007 interview, Musharraf said that he intended to stay in the office for another five
years.[85]
A nine-member panel of Supreme Court judges deliberated on six petitions (including Jamaat-e-
Islami's, Pakistan's largest Islamic group) for disqualification of Musharraf as presidential
candidate. Bhutto stated that her party may join other opposition groups, including Sharif's.
Attorney-general Malik Mohammed Qayyum stated that, pendente lite, the Election Commission
was "reluctant" to announce the schedule for the presidential vote.
On 24 September 2007, the president of the Supreme Court bar association, Munir Malik,
announced that former Supreme Court judge Wajihuddin Ahmed would challenge Musharraf in
Pakistan's October presidential election. Ahmad had little chance of defeating Musharraf (since
the president is elected by parliament and provincial assemblies).
On 28 September 2007, in a 6-3 vote, the court presided by Judge Rana Bhagwandas ruled:
"These petitions are held to be non-maintainable." The judgment removed obstacles to
Musharraf's election bid.[86]
1- PML-Q government passed a constitutional amendment in National Assembly, with 2/3
majority, also approved by Senate that allowed President Musharraf to hold dual offices.
2- Constitution of Pakistan - Article 63 clause (1) paragraph (d), read with proviso to Article 41
clause (7) paragraph (b), allows the President to hold dual office.
3- Supreme Court of Pakistan on 28 September 2007, allowed President Musharraf to stand for
elections in October 2007.
4- President Musharraf was elected President of Pakistan, on 6 October 2007, by a combined
electoral of the Senate, National Assembly and the FOUR Provincial Assembles.
5- President Musharraf won by 58% votes declared in November 2007, as the constitutional
President of Pakistan!
Emergency declared in Pakistan
On 3 November 2007 Musharraf declared emergency rule across Pakistan. He suspended the
Constitution, imposed State of Emergency, and fired the chief justice of the Supreme Court.[87]
While addressing the nation on State Television, Musharraf declared that the state of emergency
was imposed in the country. In Islamabad, troops entered the Supreme Court building, arrested
the judges and kept them under detention in their homes. Troops were deployed inside state-run
TV and radio stations, while independent channels went off air.
Pakistani general election, 2008
On 23 March 2008, President Musharraf said an "era of democracy" has begun in Pakistan. He
has put the country "on the track of development and progress." On 22 March, the Pakistan
Peoples Party named former parliament speaker Syed Yousaf Raza Gillani as its candidate for
the country's next prime minister, to lead a coalition government united against him. A
confirmation vote is scheduled for 24 March 2008 in parliament, and the prime minister would
be sworn in by Musharraf 25 March 2008.
The statistics of the Election Commission, showed party position as follows, in the February
2008 elecions.
The PML-Q and its allies: 10,844,233 votes. (40%)
The PPP-P: 10,055,491 votes. (37%)
PML-N: 6,240,343 votes. (23%)
Total votes cast: 27.14 million [45]
Impeachment movement and resignation
Movement to impeach Pervez Musharraf
On 7 August 2008, the Pakistan Peoples Party and the Pakistan Muslim League (N) agreed to
force Musharraf to step down and begin his impeachment. Asif Ali Zardari and Nawaz Sharif
announced sending a formal request or joint charge sheet that he step down, and impeach him
through parliamentary process upon refusal. Musharraf, however, said: “I will defeat those who
try to push me to the wall. If they use their right to oust me, I have the right to defend myself."[88]
Musharraf, accordingly delayed his departure for the Beijing Olympics, by a day.[89] A senior
coalition official told Reuters: "Yes, we have agreed in principle to impeach him."[90] The draft of
the ruling coalition’s joint statement had been finalized by the draft Committee, and Musharraf
would have to obtain vote of confidence from the National Assembly and 4 provincial
assemblies.[91] The government summoned the national assembly, or lower house of parliament,
to sit on 11 August.[92] Capt. Wasif Syed, spokesman for the Pakistan People's Party—confirmed:
"A decision has been made that he has to go now, and all the parties have agreed on this
point."[93]. It is speculated that Pervez Musharraf would have had to face corruption and even
murder charges if he had kept refusing a graceful exit from the president house[94].
On Monday, 18 August 2008, in a speech defending his record, Musharraf announced that he had
resigned.[95] Video of Resignation Speech
When announcing his resignation, Musharraf, 65, said: "After viewing the situation and
consulting legal advisers and political allies, with their advice I have decided to resign. I leave
my future in the hands of people. Not a single charge in the impeachment can stand against me.
No charge can be proved against me because I never did anything for myself, it was all for
Pakistan. On the map of the world, Pakistan is now an important country, by the grace of Allah.
Whether I win or lose the impeachment, the nation will lose. They don’t realize they can succeed
against me but the country will undergo irreparable damage. My resignation will go to the
speaker of the National Assembly today.” In an emotional one-hour speech, Musharraf raised his
clenched fists to chest height, and said, “Long live Pakistan!” Text of Musharraf's speech and
Musharraf's Last speech
"Nonetheless, despite his mistakes, he has been that rare phenomenon in Pakistani politics — an
honest man with good intentions who tried to serve his country to the best of his abilities. In a
country that has suffered so much over the years from corrupt and self-serving politicians, there
have been too few figures like him" Honorable act by Musharraf - Arab News Editorial
Approval ratings
In early 2007, Musharraf was extremely popular. According to a US survey, IRI President
General Pervez Musharraf was more popular in Pakistan than opposition leaders Benazir Bhutto
and Nawaz Sharif. Around 37 percent of the respondents were of the view that Musharraf's
supported PML-Q deserved to be re-elected. [46]
However, by August 2007, after the lawyers Judicial Activism started, Musharraf became
slightly unpopular in Pakistan due to persistent media efforts and anti-Musharraf talk shows. An
International Republican Institute survey, taken of 3000 people, showed that 64 percent of the
population did not want another term to be granted to Musharraf as the president of Pakistan.[96]
Musharraf's popularity grew after his resignation and several pro-Musharraf websites and groups
on Facebook emerged.
In the most recent interview with Musharraf, Daphne Barak admits that she receives mails and
people have started missing Musharraf: "Many emails are relatively flattering to you. I even have
emails from PPP members who say that they never thought they will miss you, but they do.
Especially young people!" [97]
Life after Presidency
After resignation, Musharraf went for an expected pilgrimage to Mecca. He may also continue
his travelling on a lucrative speaking tour through Middle East, Europe and United States.
Chicago-based Embark LLC is one of the international public-relations firms trying to land
Musharraf as a highly paid keynote speaker.[98] According to Embark President David B.
Wheeler, the speaking fee for Musharraf would be in the $150,000-200,000 range for a day plus
jet and other V.I.P. arrangements on the ground.
Musharraf disclosed that he has planned to jump back into full time politics but not until he
moves into his newly constructed house in Chak Shahzad in Rawalpindi/Islamabad as he does
not want to misuse the army house for political purposes.[99]
His speech at the Amway Grand Plaza Hotel in January 2009 marked his first U.S. appearance
since he left office last year, as he embarks on a international speaking tour. The former
president of Pakistan pleaded for understanding in his country's fight against terrorism, in a
region deemed central to the outcome of that battle. "Pakistan has confronted terrorism and
extremism for more than two decades now," Pervez Musharraf said in a speech to about 500
people at the World Affairs Council of Western Michigan event.[100]
Regarding the Lahore attack on Sri Lankan players, Musharraf criticized the police commandos'
inability to kill any of the gunmen, saying "If this was the elite force I would expect them to have
shot down those people who attacked them, the reaction, their training should be on a level that if
anyone shoots toward the company they are guarding, in less than three seconds they should
shoot the man down."[101][102]
Article 6 trial
The PML Nawaz have tried to get Pervez Musharraf to stand trial in an article 6 trial for treason
in relation to the emergency on November 3, 2007[103], which Musharraf signed as Chief of Army
Staff instead of in his position as President of Pakistan[104], yet revoked it as the President of
Pakistan, also revoking the PCO of 3rd November.[105]
The Prime Minister of Pakistan Yousaf Raza Gilani has said a consensus resolution is required in
national assembly for an article 6 trial of Pervez Musharraf [106] “I have no love lost for
Musharraf ... if parliament decides to try him, I will be with parliament. Article 6 cannot be
applied to one individual ... those who supported him are today in my cabinet and some of them
have also joined the PML-N ... the MMA, the MQM and the PML-Q supported him ... this is
why I have said that it is not doable,” said the Prime Minister while informally talking to editors
and also replying to questions by journalists at an Iftar-dinner he had hosted for them.[107]
Meanwhile, Proclamation of Emergency and Revocation is the constitutional right of the
President of Pakistan, according to the constitution of Pakistan, Article 232 and Article 236.[108]
On 15 February 2008, the Supreme Court has delivered detailed judgement to validate the
Proclamation of Emergency on 3 November 2007, the Provisional Constitution Order No 1 of
2007 and the Oath of Office (Judges) Order, 2007.[109]
Saudi Arabia have agreements in place to stop any article 6 trial in Pakistan in relation to Pervez
Musharraf according to the newspapers due to Saudi Arabia's long standing friendship with all of
the political parties in Pakistan [110][111]. Sharif is under tremendous pressure from Saudi Arabia to
shun his demand for Musharraf’s trial under the Article Six of the Constitution[112]
The President of PML-Q, Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain has said that those vying for article 6
against Musharraf to suffer and would themselves get embroiled in trouble.[113] Secretary General
of PML-Q Mushahid Hussain Sayed, also ruled out Musharraf’s trial under Article-6 of the
Constitution.[114]
Cases
Abbottabad's district and sessions judge in a missing person's case passed judgment asking the
authorities to declare Pervez Musharraf a proclaimed offender.[115]
Legacy
The neutrality of this article is disputed. Please see the discussion on the talk page.
Please do not remove this message until the dispute is resolved. (May 2009)
Musharraf characterizes himself as a moderate leader with liberal, progressive ideas, and has
expressed admiration for Kemal Ataturk, founder of the Turkish Republic.[116] President
Musharraf led a team of economists and professionals along with ex-PM Shaukat Aziz, to mark
their achievements. The Economic Achievements caused Pakistan to emerge as a geo-strategic
important country with a 100% better economy. In 2006, Pakistan was the 3rd fastest growing
economy of the world and world’s preferred destination for Investment. His vision and policies
helped Pakistan come out of the list of Highly Indebted Poor Countries (HIPC) while setting it
on path of prosperity, growth and economic reforms. His era ushered in Multi-National
Corporations.
President Musharraf moved aggressively to privatize the economy, reduce poverty and Pakistan's
foreign debt, and allow the press more freedom.[117] Statements issued by the government suggest
significant improvement in the economy. Pakistan's Economy boomed from a mere worth of $75
billion in 1999 to become $170 billion [47] in 2008. Debt servicing in ratio to GDP also
decreased significantly.
The business and finance side thrived under his strong-armed stewardship. Pakistan won
approval of global capital markets, with highlights being the $800 million Regulation S Rule
144A sovereign bond, including a 30 year tranche, and a ground breaking GDR from Muslim
Commercial Bank[118]
It was under Musharraf's liberal policies that led to freedom of media and from one state run
television PTV, above 50 channels List of Pakistani television stations were given license to
operate. Pakistan saw an era of huge influx of television and radio channels.
Dr. Mahjabeen Islam says, "The vibrancy of Pakistan’s press is proven by the fact that many an
expatriate obtains their news from Pakistan’s news sources rather than the post-9/11 throttled
and slanted media bytes that one gets in the United States. And to give credit where it’s due,
media freedom will remain as General Musharraf’s positive legacy" [48].
Xenia Dormandy, Executive Director for Research at Harvard University's Belfer Center for
Science and International Affairs, says Pervez Musharraf is in a difficult situation, given
Pakistan's political turmoil, its war on terror and its relations with its neighbors and the United
States. "He is squeezed between his relationship with the U.S. and our desires, the improving
relationship with India, the historical relationship with Afghanistan and, at the same time,
domestic political constraints, and the long-term tribal interests of much of his population," says
Dormandy. Some experts who view the General in a sympathetic light agree. Among them is
analyst Michael Krepon, co-founder of the non-profit Henry L. Stimson Center in Washington,
who adds that the complexities of Pakistani society must be taken into account when looking at
Pervez Musharraf. [49]
Dr Shirin M Mazari, an Islamabad-based analyst says, "Musharraf has done a lot for women. He
has increased their representation in Parliament. He has given a wider public space to women.
He will not leave behind the negative legacy that Zia left." [50]
The Brookings Institution's Steven Cohen says, "He's going to have a difficult time leaving a
permanent imprint on Pakistan, partly because the material he is dealing with is so intractable.
He'd like to get an agreement on Kashmir. But India is not into compromising much more, if at
all, even though Musharraf has come a long way in terms of Pakistan's position. He'd like to
reform Pakistani politics and the Pakistan economy. But that's very, very hard to do, in part,
because politics can't be reformed from the top and, in part, because the economy has been so
badly abused over the decades and it's in a really serious shape." Even those who would like to
see Pervez Musharraf's "enlightened" vision for Pakistan succeed warn that there is no telling
what next year's election may bring. [51]
"He's a man who has a very high opinion of himself based on his performance in the Army and
his professional education and his training. He believes - - and I think others would agree - -
because Pakistan has a shortage of civilian leaders, that's why the military has to be involved.
He once compared himself to Atatürk [i.e., Mustafa Kemal Atatürk, the founder of modern
Turkey] and said Atatürk was his role model. But clearly, he's a man who has a larger vision of
things and believes that he can do great things for Pakistan and for the world," says Cohen.
After Musharraf left office of the President, U.S. Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice offered
"deep gratitude" for his original decision to join the U.S.-led fight against extremists. She called
Musharraf "one of the world's most committed partners in the war against terrorism."[119]
By most accounts, General Pervez Musharraf had a grand vision for Pakistan, one that sought to
put it on a path of what he called "Enlightened Moderation." [52]
See also
Pakistan portal

• List of national leaders

• Politics of Pakistan
• Line of succession to President of Pakistan
• Nawaz Sharif
• Enlightened Moderation
• bbc.co.uk, Timeline: Pakistan A chronology of key events:
Notes
1. ^ Carlotta Gall (2007-11-28). "Musharraf Quits Pakistani Army Post". The New York Times.
http://www.nytimes.com/2007/11/29/world/asia/29pakistan.html. Retrieved 2007-11-28.
2. ^ Bearak, Barry (13 May 2000). "Pakistan Court Upholds Coup but Orders Reforms". The New
York Times. http://www.nytimes.com/2000/05/13/world/pakistan-court-upholds-coup-but-orders-
reforms.html. Retrieved 22 May 2010.
3. ^ [1]
4. ^ [2]
5. ^ Official Biography of Pervez Musharraf
6. ^ a b c d e f g Pervez Musharraf (2006). In the Line of Fire: A Memoir. Free Press. ISBN 0-7432-
8344-9.
7. ^ A boy called Musharraf
8. ^ PakDef.Info - M47 & M48 Patton in Pakistani Service
9. ^ "Musharraf’s fiery memoirs" by Anwar Kemal, Dawn (newspaper) 14 October 2006
10.^ a b In the Line of Fire: A Memoir
11.^ Pervez Musharraf: PROFILE - BBC 4 Documentary
12.^ Musharraf’s 1971, a sob story, Musharraf 'wept' when East Pak fell
13.^ Jamestown Foundation
14.^ Musharraf Vs. Sharif: Who's Lying?
15.^ Tom Clancy, Gen. Tony Zinni (Retd) and Tony Koltz (2004). Battle Ready. Grosset & Dunlap.
ISBN 0-399-15176-1.
16.^ Gun-battle flares up along LoC DAWN Wire Service 21 May 1999
17.^ "Musharraf Give Up Army Uniform". BBC News. 28 November 2007.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/south_asia/7116290.stm. Retrieved 2007-11-28.
18.^ BBC profile on Musharraf
19.^ President General Pervez Musharraf: Address to People of Pakistan
20.^ Musharraf's book says Pakistan faced U.S. 'onslaught' if it didn't back terror war 9/26/2006
USA Today
21.^ Tom Clancy, Gen. Tony Zinni (Retd) and Tony Koltz (2004). Battle Ready. Grosset & Dunlap.
ISBN 0-399-15176-1.
22.^ Hassan Abbas (2004). Pakistan's Drift Into Extremism: Allah, the Army, and America's War on
Terror. M.E. Sharpe. ISBN 0-7656-1497-9.
23.^ Musharraf advised against Kargil, says Benazir
24.^ Gen panicked, told Sharif about Kargil 11 October 2006
25.^ 'India should trust Musharraf' The Rediff Interview/MQM leader Altaf Hussein 22 November
2004
26.^ The Hindu - Of Dictators and Democrats Frontline Volume 17 - Issue 05, 4–17 March 2000
27.^ "Quake may improve India Pakistan ties". CNN. 2 February 2001.
http://archives.cnn.com/2001/WORLD/asiapcf/south/02/02/india.quake.02/. Retrieved 22 May
2010.
28.^ "Rival Pakistan offers India help". BBC News. 30 January 2001.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/1139807.stm. Retrieved 22 May 2010.
29.^ [3]
30.^ US 'threatened to bomb' Pakistan BBC, 22 September 2006
31.^ Melissa Block (September 22, 2006). "Armitage Denies Making 'Stone Age' Threat". National
Public Radio. http://www.npr.org/templates/story/story.php?storyId=6126088. Retrieved 2009-
09-02.
32.^ "Bush, Musharraf Dance Around Alleged U.S. Threat". National Public Radio. September 22,
2006. http://www.npr.org/templates/transcript/transcript.php?storyId=6124473. Retrieved 2009-
09-02.
33.^ and has yet not been released by the PPP led government. Pakistan nuclear case 'is closed'
34.^ Report: Musharraf blasts West over Olympics
35.^ [4]
36.^ [5]
37.^ http://pakistantimes.net/2004/03/03/top10.htm
38.^ Musharraf referendum
39.^ Musharraf apologized for "irregularities
40.^ http://www.dawn.com/2003/12/05/top8.htm
41.^ http://www.atimes.com/atimes/South_Asia/DH20Df07.html
42.^ Christian Science Monitor - Analysts say Washington's fears that Islamic extremists will take
control of Pakistan are overblown..
43.^ Musharraf addressed Jewish congregation in New York
44.^ Arab News, Musharraf Talks to Jewish Leaders, Barbara Ferguson, 9/19/05
45.^ Zahid Hussain: 'Pakistan Is Again a Frontline State'
46.^ Arrests follow Musharraf attack - BBC News
47.^ Masood, Salman and Nizza, Mike "Gunmen Fire on Musharraf’s Plane" New York Times
(nytimes.com) 6 July 2007
48.^ "Attack on Musharraf: 39 detained" rediff.com 17 July 2007
49.^ "39 arrested for links to attack on Musharraf" server.kbri-islamabad.go.id/ 17 July 2007
50.^ "Four die as helicopter escorting Musharraf crashes" The News, 9 October 2007
51.^ Citigroup: Global Consumer Business Announces Management Structure
52.^ Pakistan Economic Success mercy of 911 or Macro-Economic Policies
53.^ [6]
54.^ [7]
55.^ [8]
56.^ Foreign Reserves fast depleting
57.^ [9]
58.^ [http://www.brecorder.com/index.php?
id=757882&currPageNo=1&query=&search=&term=&supDate= Rs 1.251 trillion revenue target
set for fiscal year 2009 ]
59.^ World Bank
60.^ IMF
61.^ ADB
62.^ [10]
63.^ [11]
64.^ [12]
65.^ [13]
66.^ [14]
67.^ Asian Conflicts Reports, October 2009
68.^ The Battered Half
69.^ 'Protecting' women for political gain in Pakistan
70.^ [www.hrcp-web.org/pdf/Archives%20Reports/AR2006.pdf HRCP Report on Human Rights]
71.^ http://www.thaindian.com/newsportal/south-asia/more-women-in-pakistan-polls-signals-
political-freedom_10020351.html
72.^ [15]
73.^ BBC - Musharraf's corruption crackdown 'failing'
74.^ [16]
75.^ [17]
76.^ Musharraf’s tenure as army chief challenged Dawn
77.^ EDITORIAL: Musharraf’s political options are closing Daily Times
78.^ a b "Musharraf 'respects' court ruling". BBC News. 21 July 2007.
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/6909678.stm. Retrieved 22 May 2010.
79.^ [18]
80.^ [19]
81.^ [20]
82.^ AFP.google.com, Bhutto set to announce return date to Pakistan
83.^ a b New York Times, Maneuvering Before Vote in Pakistan
84.^ Reuters, Nawaz Sharif arrested after return to Pakistan
85.^ Daily Times - Musharraf tells why he wants another five years
86.^ CNN, Musharraf wins ruling on army role
87.^ Rohde, David (4 November 2007). "Musharraf Declares Emergency Rule". The New York
Times. http://www.nytimes.com/2007/11/04/world/asia/04pakistan.html?
_r=1&ref=asia&oref=slogin. Retrieved 2007-11-03.
88.^ timesonline.co.uk, President Musharraf of Pakistan to be impeached
89.^ reuters.com, Pakistan rulers agree to begin Musharraf impeachment
90.^ guardian.co.uk, Musharraf faces impeachment, Pakistan's ruling coalition agrees 'in principle' to
begin proceedings to remove president
91.^ paktribune.com, Draft of ruling coalition’s joint statement finalized
92.^ afp.google.com, Pakistan coalition agrees to impeach Musharraf: officials
93.^ edition.cnn.com, Pakistan: Musharraf could face impeachment
94.^ Musharraf may face corruption, murder charges
95.^ "Pakistan's Musharraf will resign".
96.^ The Economist - A mess in Pakistan
97.^ [21]
98.^ Musharraf: In the Money? - Newsweek
99.^ Template:Lang ur http://www.jang.com.pk/jang/oct2008-daily/18-10-2008/main.htm
100.^ [22]
101.^ Pakistan Cricket Ambush Controversy Focuses on Security, Voice of America, 2009-03-5
102.^ Rehman Khan, Fasihur (2009-03-05). "'Elite force should have killed terrorists'". Gulfnews.
http://www.gulfnews.com/world/Pakistan/10292058.html. Retrieved 2009-03-07.
103.^ [23] [24] Musharraf’s trial under Article 6 ‘Indispensable’: Nawaz
104.^ [25][26] Senate opposition vows not to indemnify PCO
105.^ [27]
 106.^ [28] [Musharraf’s trial only after consensus resolution: PM] Consensus on Musharraf trial
107.^ [29] [30] Musharraf Trial and deal
108.^ [31]
109.^ [32]
110.^ [http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2009\09\02\story_2-9-2009_pg1_1 Saudis
come to Musharraf’s rescue
111.^ http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=2009\09\14\story_14-9-2009_pg1_1 [33]No
trial, Saudis assure Musharraf
112.^ [34]
113.^ [35]
114.^ [36]
115.^ Javed, Rashid (2009-10-31). "Abbottabad court rules against Musharraf". Dawn.
http://www.dawn.com/wps/wcm/connect/dawn-content-library/dawn/news/pakistan/19-
abbottabad-court-rules-against-musharraf-hh-03. Retrieved 2009-10-31.
116.^ Musharraf promises 'stronger democracy'
117.^ [37]
118.^ [38]
119.^ KLUG, FOSTER US prepares for post-Musharraf Pakistan. Associated Press. 19 August 2008

Books
• Pervez Musharraf, In the Line of Fire: A Memoir (2006)
Official
• Official Repository of Presidential Speeches (mirror)
• Official profile at Pakistan Army website
• Our Leader - Musharraf
• Our Leader - Musharraf
• Musharraf Supporters
• Long Live Musharraf
• Musharraf Pakistan
Articles by Musharraf
• "A Plea for Enlightened Moderation", by Pervez Musharraf, Washington Post opinion
piece
Interviews
• I am staying in Pakistan: Musharraf
• An hour with Pervez Musharraf, Charlie Rose (video)
• Address by Pervez Musharraf to U.S. Institute of Peace (text, audio & video available)
June 2003
Commentaries
 • Musharraf has left the building, what’s next now?, (opinion piece from Paki.in/WTF)
• PPP Govt appreciates Economic Policies of Musharraf regime

Military offices

Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff

Succeeded by
Committee
Aziz Khan
Preceded by 1998–2001
Jehangir Karamat
Chief of Army Staff Succeeded by
1998–2007 Ashfaq Parvez Kayani

Political offices

Preceded by Chief Executive of Pakistan Succeeded by

Nawaz Sharif 1999–2002 Zafarullah Khan Jamali
as Prime Minister of Pakistan as Prime Minister of Pakistan

Preceded by Minister of Defence Succeeded by

Nawaz Sharif 1999–2002 Rao Sikandar Iqbal

Preceded by President of Pakistan Succeeded by

Muhammad Rafiq Tarar 2001–2008 Muhammad Mian Soomro
Acting