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If the timing is significant, it’s because Musharraf isn’t coming here on a private visit to meet family and friends - the former president announced on March 1, 2013 that he plans to contest parliamentary elections as the leader of his party, the All Pakistan Muslim League (APML).
“When I look at these conditions that the country is in, I know that my return to Pakistan is crucial. And I will return to my beloved country,” he said at a press conference in Dubai. “Now or never, now or never!”
With this announcement, however, arise a number of considerations – the various cases pending against him, the viability of his party performing well in the polls, the size of his support base and the kind of political drama that could take place once he steps foot on Pakistani soil - not to mention the spectre of violence.
First, the cases: The former military leader has been implicated in the assassinations of Benazir Bhutto as well as Nawab Akbar Bugti. On top of that is his involvement in the Lal Masjid operation. Then of course, the government has scrambled to start the process for lodging a high treason case against the ex-president, currently living in self-imposed exile.
These cases can not be looked at in terms of legal repercussions alone. The Senate was both thrown into an uproar earlier this week, soon after Musharraf made his dramatic announcement.
Senator Raza Rabbani, of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) reminded the lawmakers that a resolution had been adopted unanimously last year to try Musharraf for treason.
Musharraf’s supporters, of course do not take well to such reminders. Many believe that Pakistan, at a low point as far as peace, security, and tolerance are concerned, would be best handled by a man like Musharraf.
Many people also fear, however, that Pakistan could be thrown into chaos with the arrival of such a controversial figure at such a sensitive time, especially considering the obstacles Musharraf will face in his quest to contest elections without a word of dissent.
Considering this imbroglio that Musharraf is to involve himself in the minute he lands, as well as the receding popularity of APML, should he return to Pakistan? Is it worth the possible price?
And is he even a viable electoral candidate? Musharraf has never come to power via parliamentary elections before. And this time, he plans to enter them with a lot of legal baggage.
Read more
On DawnNews
Comments (142) Closed
Mar 14, 2013 03:18pm
All his comments are trial balloons (teasers). Pervez Musharraf is too smart and will never return to Pakistan.
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Mar 14, 2013 03:27pm
Objectively speaking he should stand trail for everything he is acused off and if he is able to clear his name he can contest!
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Mar 14, 2013 03:58pm
It is correct that Musharraf was never elected as the leader. But give me one example of all these elected leaders who have done one single good for the country or the nation. Just one example would suffice. These elected leaders, their only mission in life is to loot the country, ransack the nation, create massive chaos and then live in their wrongfully acquired palatial mansions. Musharraf's one good deed of taking down the Lal Masjid's mullahs is superior to any good deed (if there is one) of all the leaders whether political, judicial, security or intelligence, all put together. He is the only one who has the guts to reign-in the mullahs and bring the country back into the sphere of civilized nations. He is the only one who can be expected to clean up the government, the police and above all the judiciary of inefficient and especially people with the wrong mind set. The judiciary that lives in the prehistoric ages and lacks common sense completely.
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Mar 14, 2013 04:42pm
Musharaf like any other Pakistani has the right to contest coming elections in May without any fear of being arrested for any politically motivated case agianst him so he can defeat tax-evading politicians and corrupt peers. If Zardari and current politicians in power are not responsible for the killings in last five years then he is not responsible for any killings in the country during his tenure.
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Mar 14, 2013 04:50pm
All cases against him, as he says, have no legal leg to stand on. It will be only victimization if he falls into, which of course he will have to fight politically with any allias or sympathizers in any Corner of the Country or outside Country.
He does have a sprinkling Support of all around, so yes, his Party does has a Chance to win a non-ignoreable number of seats.
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Mar 14, 2013 05:12pm
Not sure whether Musharraf will be succeeded but if we remember & compare the history of PPP and PMLN-governments I think , the risk of Musharraf will be well worthy. Musharraf has long history of administrative experience and he is some what honest and has sincere feelings for Pakistan. Imran Khan has no experience what so ever to run the Government. There is a huge difference between a captain of a team and a Leader of the Nation. I wish Pakistan all the very best. Good luck Pakistan & God bless you with the sincere , honest & brave leader.
Thank you dawn.
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Mar 14, 2013 05:14pm
Musharraf should be clapped into jail on arrival in Pakistan. Not for what happened to Benazir but for cutting a deal with PPP, the much talked about NRO, to forgive them for past crimes and also to absolve them of all crimes in perpetuity. This is a dreadful legacy for Pakistan and can only have been done by a traitor to save his own skin.
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Mar 14, 2013 05:14pm
well, he has no chance whatsoever BUT with this, it is not because of him, but because of our nation, we are a cursed nation due to our own deeds. These people will not let him come and have falsefully succeeded in damaging him, if the present politicians intentions were real, than they could do all their best while in power to bring musharraf in and charge for bugti and benazirs murder, but they did not and can not, they are only scared of Musharraf
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Mar 14, 2013 05:21pm
If the armed forces managed to make a fool out of Musharraf it doesn't mean that he can get away by making a fool out of everybody else and such is the yardstick required to measure all imposters.
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Mar 14, 2013 05:48pm
We don't need you after what you have done to this nation we couldn't forget Lal Masjid massacre in which innocent women and childrens were martyred and you disrespected our national hero Dr Abdul Qadir.
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Mar 14, 2013 05:59pm
In my humble opinion , if he loves his country so much as he pretends to , then he must stay put where he is earning quite handsome millions and living like a pharaoh and spare the poor nation and the poor country of another turmoil . his own skin will be best saved and the nation will be best served that he never puts his foot back on the soil , which has been soiled with the blood letting he and his cronies let unravel with that Unstinting support he extended to USA just on a call from an Ex-general ( sect of state ) and sold the soul of the nation for ever
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Mar 14, 2013 06:38pm
What about the people of Pakistan who voted for PPP and PMLN? And what about all the legislators who voted for Zardari? Should they all be put in jail?
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Mar 14, 2013 08:08pm
He has already damaged Pakistan considerably. If he really wants to serve the country then it is better to stay out of politics. He should consider serving by using his wealth for charitable causes. He has accumulated billions in offshore accounts besides the property he already has. His accounts in the middle east and the money he has is documented and is not a secret. He is a retired general who has to explain his dubious journey from rags to riches.
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Mar 14, 2013 08:09pm
True that Musharraf was not elected....!!
Who is the ELECTED LEADER of their own party in Pakistan except JI?
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Mar 14, 2013 08:24pm
Poor logic.
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Mar 14, 2013 09:00pm
If PP is so bad then why Pakistani elected PPP. If Musharaf did a bad deal then why Pakistani endorsed that deal by allowing to rule for 5 years
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Mar 14, 2013 09:09pm
Musharraf did more good then bad things we should appreciate him .Bottom rule to judge any ruler is Financial; Data, the economic and financial data much improved during his tenure, most peacful tenure. what else, Mosque is for pray not for storing weapons , he did right thing to remove thug and criminal from Lal Masjid. When Musharraf raise his voice against Taliban all leader said he is Kafir and now majority of the Pakistani appealing to the government to control and punish Taliban.
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Mar 14, 2013 09:15pm
Which Pakistani leader did not extend his/her support to USA. not only Musharraf millions of Pakistani want to leave this country where your life is not save. Everyone has the right to save his life specially once you know that corrupt bureaucrats exist and you wont get any justice. I salute to Musharraf who decided to come Pakistan where his life is in danger.
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Mar 14, 2013 09:27pm
fully agree with you...
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Mar 14, 2013 09:27pm
Musharraf is better than all the lying lot we have right now anyone thinks otherwise either has a personal bias or don't know all the facts.
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Mar 14, 2013 09:29pm
Musharraf is a man who has guts.I wish him all the best.
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Mar 14, 2013 09:30pm
Fully agree with you. But, I wish Musharraf and Imran Khan make a coalition, both are honest and brave persons. If the nation does not give them a chance then Pakistan will become a history.
The rest are all crap.
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Mar 14, 2013 09:31pm
Pakistan's economy and education, the two most important factors that make a nation, progressed most during Musharraf's initial tenure, just like the initial tenure of Ayub Khan. In addition, under Musharraf, Pakistan's standing in the world concerning corruption improved substantially. However, it is true that Musharraf did sell out to the Americans. Here Imran Khan clearly has an advantage. But we tend to vote emotionally and not pragmatically which means both Musharraf and Imran Khan will be sidelined and we are going to continue our decline of the last five years with the same old same old.
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Mar 14, 2013 09:43pm
In the first place, I dont think Musharraf is to be tried for Benazir or Bugti murder. He has nothing to do with Benazir murder. And as far as Bugti is concerned, Bugti was not a Prophet or angel and Musharraf did what any head of the coutry would do to establish the writ of the government. Furthermore, it is reported that Bugti actually died of his own mistake of blowing in the cave.
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Mar 15, 2013 12:13am
Good for Pakistan, if Musharraf, PTI & Dr. Qadri join forces to break the status quo...
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Mar 15, 2013 12:23am
He should definitely come to Pakistan and face the courts. I think he'll get a fair chance to defend himself. If he's done some wrong he should be held accountable and given punishment according to law. If he proves himself innocent, he should be set free and allowed to do politics or whatever he wishes to do.
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Mar 15, 2013 01:04am
What exactly does he plan on achieving that he wasn't able to achieve for the country in his 8 year long dictatorship. Akbar Bugti and Benazir Bhutto both died under his rule. Thanks General. But NO thanks!
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Mar 15, 2013 01:55am
he has arrest warrants out against him. he will be arrested unless the caretaker government doesnt let police arrest him
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Mar 15, 2013 02:13am
Though he was the military leader he was the best Pakistan had in a long time. That does not mean he was perfect or his cronies did not abuse the system but I will take him over the current crooks any day any time. I have a business in Pakistan since the 90's and send few million dollars each year. We were forced to pay bribe in every civilian regime except Musharraf's. Unfortunately, I am not sure if our country is ready for him or any other decent man/woman. The very fabric of our culture is now based on corruption and extremism. I will continue to have hope and pray for my former country and help it any way I can.
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Mar 15, 2013 02:14am
We recognize his blunders of the past but it seems to be that he has learnt some good lessons from the past mistakes.
We should also recognize that he he has lot of good leadership qualities. We must utilize his capabilities but he needs a good controlling force. Perhaps he can be a good adviser and a mover/ shaker supporting to Imran Khan's leadership as Prime Minister.
Javed Abid
Sydney
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Mar 15, 2013 02:48am
Musharraf, should return and participate in elections, he has shown ample love for the country, he has shown personal honesty, and dedication; he will ofcourse have to get his name cleared from the courts, I know Mir sahib will be disappointed. I cannot say much for the ruling party and the state of the country post Musharraf....just read about all the scams railways, rental power, steel mills, Oil & Gas, Bank scam, land scams, Haj scam, Drug scam, need I say more.
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Mar 15, 2013 02:50am
There is a saying by Hazrat Ali (jis pe ehsaan karo us ke shar se bacho). Musharraf should never come back this country of thank less people to save himself from their 'shar'. Let these people destroy this country with own hands, in the last 5 years they have done half the job. Let them do the full job in the next five years
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Mar 15, 2013 03:31am
Excellent point Saeed. I dont understand how people tend to forget the fact that we voted the PPP and PML into power. First they curse Musharraf for being a dictator then when he made a deal with the "democractic" government, people blame it on him. If Musharraf had kept his uniform on, no person would have the courage to speak against him. The only thing most people in Pakistan understand is the "danda".
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Mar 15, 2013 03:35am
Only leader who can save Pakistan period.
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Mar 15, 2013 03:35am
How can Musharraf be blamed for BB's death just because he was head of state? Zardari was the head of state when Salman Taseer died, when Shahbaz Bhatti died, and countless others died. Why isn't Zardari in jail then? This PPP govt has not been able to catch any killers, not even BB's killers, so they try to blame it on Musharraf to cover their own weaknesses.
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Mar 15, 2013 03:45am
A leader should be judged by how he leads his men and how he protects the minorities. Musharraf led the Army from the front lines and protected minorities (Ahmadis, Shias, Christians) from violence. Even today when half of the govt is against him, he openly defends Pakistan in the international media. People need to realize just holding elections does not mean democracy. Musharraf is coming back to participate in the democratic process knowing the dangers to his life - That's how a leader should be.
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Mar 15, 2013 03:52am
Good point. He has international fame and gets paid handsomely to give lectures and his viewpoints at events. Yet it's shameful to know that our own countrymen are making false cases against him, accusing him of being a criminal, and preventing him from returning to the nation.
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Mar 15, 2013 04:12am
I think the cases against him are politically motivate. However, if he comes back he will manage to get some support in Pakistan and may win few seats as well because people in various areas and fields do support him. Although he is a controversial figure but then everyone is controversial here in the politics. No body is clean!. So I think he should come and contest for election and let the people decide whether or not to bring him in power.
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Mar 15, 2013 04:33am
i heard from a TV Anchor, that Musharraf is responsible for bringing corrupt politician in power , my question from these naive anchor is then why Pakistani voted for these politician, blame to people.
i will request from Musharraf not to come Pakistan, because our nation has already a lot of hero like Fazlur rehman, Nawaz shareef, Zardai Altaf etc they don't want people like you,who already prove himself, who gave this nation peace and stability. Enjoy your life Musharraf if you come these people will make your life hell, they are chasing all the good people they killed some of them and wanted to kill who are alive.
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Mar 15, 2013 04:39am
You can only Blame musharraf for bhutto and laal masjid drama but what about the last 5 years we are suffering which is like hell. ASK ALL THE OLDER PEOPLE AROUND THEY WOULD SAY THE BEST YEARS WERE OF MUSHARRAF AND QUAID E AZAM
Thanks
Please Musharraf we want an educated person to run this country :(
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Mar 15, 2013 05:01am
Love you Sir! Will always have support for you Sir. You are 1000 times better than Zardari and Sharif. Allah fee amanat Love you Musharraf love you. All the cases against you are concocted and frivolous. Inshallah Sir Allah is with you and people are with you. Thank you for giving Pakistan peace, security and prosperity.
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Mar 15, 2013 05:25am
Musharraf did not hang any rival as in the case of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto. He is responsible for freedom of press and speech. He also allowed the return of Nawaz Sharif and Benazir Bhutto to participate in the elections. Therefore allow him to return to his country and let him try his luck. He and his party will find out how popular he is with voting public. If he is bad for Pakistan, voters will reject him.
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Mar 15, 2013 05:30am
for anybody thinking about voting for Musharraf, please don't. if you want to support Musharraf, support PTI instead. He has no relevance in the future of Pakistani politics and at a time when all opposition is united, we must be united against them for change.
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Mar 15, 2013 05:44am
He is better than these so called political leaders, he is the one who have given power to the people in the shape of local bodies and during his period middle class and business flourishes. The current politician are corrupt and not sincere to the country. These politician should also be tried for the corruption and mismanagement.
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Mar 15, 2013 05:51am
Enjoying a multimillion life abroad, and suddenly his love for Pakistan and Pakistani People has out of blue awakened? Atrocious decision by him and all the military dictators turned Pakistan into a battle ground of blood and tyranny. Why should he return to Pakistan?
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Mar 15, 2013 06:21am
Many of Pakistan's ills today are thanks to Musharraf. His regime supported Pakistan's taliban, what deadly repercussions, I will not repeat the trials mentioned in the article though he certainly had a role in them, the energy problems, leaving a bankrupt economy, the upheavals with the supreme court, amongst a long list. That he is totally unaware of his wrong decisions speaks badly of him. And that he thinks he is the only saviour of Pakistan, even worse. Ignorance and arrogance are a deadly combination, Pakistan deserves better.
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Mar 15, 2013 06:30am
Musharaf has equal right to come and participate in the elections, there is no reason to take that right away from him.
Let the people of Pakistan decide.
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Mar 15, 2013 06:34am
I think he is the only educated and honest person in electoral. According to the new forms published by the Election commission, he is the only one qualify.
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Mar 15, 2013 06:43am
Pervez Musharraf should return to Pakistan and context election from Chitral. The cases against him in pakistan are just politically motivated. Whatever Pervez Musharraf has done during his government were in the interest of Pakistan. Pakistan need leaders like Musharraf.
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Mar 15, 2013 07:20am
We should be asking ourselves whether we want him back? he's been tried and tested like others and if we're willing to bear the likes of leaders of two big parties on our soil despite their track-records, then why not Pervez Musharaf who despite being in uniform, had more economic sense then any other we've seen in quite a while. I would go for him..
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Mar 15, 2013 08:01am
Musharraf is the only leader who a) has leadership skills b) is honest c) understands the economic problems we face d) is sincere and loyal to the core
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Mar 15, 2013 08:15am
And what has stopped PPP, Kayani & other generals from ending that agreement with the US? Lets get over biases against individuals & accept that whatever agreements were or have been reached with the US have been backed & blessed by the military & political leadership.
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Mar 15, 2013 09:06am
Musharraf never supported the talibans. In fact he is the one who took a U turn to safe Pakistan from Talibans and Jihadis. It was in the 90's PPP & PML-N kept closed eye (as they were always busy in looting) to keep talibans rolling. There was no energy problem during his rule, we still have production capacity, its the corruption and mis governance which is keeping us short in energy. Thirdly, he never left a backrupt economy, during his tenure, Pakistan had one of the best economy in 60 years. Few mistakes, but overall he made Pakistan a very good place to live.
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Mar 15, 2013 10:28am
Musharaf while in power could have done much better, but he was greed for power in a democratic set-up and took the wrong advise of the chaudary brothers who let him down. Now he has lost his charm - no doubt he is an honest man - he has missed the train
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Mar 15, 2013 10:44am
Leaders do not leave. The skipper of the ship is the last to abandon not the first.
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Mar 15, 2013 11:00am
Bakwas
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Mar 15, 2013 11:49am
I compeletly agree Hydeer
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Mar 15, 2013 12:29pm
well said parkash. Unlike some other politicians he did not kill his rivals....He is solely responsible for the media today in Pakistan, the media which also caused his downfall, no doubt he made some naive decisions but overall he was much better for Pakistan than anyone who has come to the helm before.
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Mar 15, 2013 12:31pm
Imran is Charismatic of that I have no doubt but I would prefer Imran in strong opposition rather than in complete power.
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Mar 15, 2013 12:45pm
you are naive know nothing, Imran Khan want to keep friendly relation ship with some of the Taliban Group and many people support him. Not good to blame Musharraf for all the crisis we are having today , present ruler are responsible , Economic was boning those days, Stock market is a barometer , it was highest those days, reat estae is another barometer was on top. People ware safe having jobs what else you want. If we treat our hero badly then be ready for bad leader .
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Mar 15, 2013 12:46pm
Don't make judgements on reports and assumptions. What are courts for? Let the civil course of law to decide the facts.
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Mar 15, 2013 12:46pm
You are right Pakistan deserve Zardari not Musharraf
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Mar 15, 2013 12:47pm
If he returns he must not indulge the people who betrayed him when he was in power.
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Mar 15, 2013 01:16pm
arrest warrants ? all in politically motivated cases !
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Mar 15, 2013 01:24pm
yes he can live happily but he choose a hard path just to serve Pakistan , I am a supporter of him and advice him not to put his life in danger be safe and be away because a group of thug is on a mission of killing all good people of Pakistan .
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Mar 15, 2013 01:47pm
How about corrupt minister, ex-minister , Army general who are in Pakistan why no trial for them. Politician and media is scare from Musharraf, they know if given him a free hand ordinary people of Pakistan will choose him as their leader that s why try to bring hurdles
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Mar 15, 2013 02:02pm
This nation deserves rulers like Zardari and Nawaz Sharif
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Mar 15, 2013 02:38pm
the question is wrong actually, coming to Pakistan and contesting in elections are two different things. He will come back to Pakistan as he is given guarantee by the Saudis and PML-N. But he will not be able to get any support from the people of Pakistan.
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Mar 15, 2013 03:00pm
He was much better than our so called elected politicians we had for the last five years.
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Mar 15, 2013 03:02pm
Those who talk against Musharraf, not based on merit she or he has affiliation with any party otherwise if u judge on merit he is on top.Politician in fact jealous to him. Media is also not telling the truth and people don't have any wisdom
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Mar 15, 2013 04:19pm
Musharraf should come and take part in election and mobilize his party. He was far better then what ppp did to this nation. Wish him good luck
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Mar 15, 2013 04:30pm
Read history of the world, concentration of power corrupts people.Which one can see what has happened in each dictator's era.
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Mar 15, 2013 04:32pm
i hope your prediction won't come true,
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Mar 15, 2013 04:35pm
Musharraf is everything that our current politicians aren't. He is smart, he is knowledgeable, he is personally honest, people overseas respect him, he is a die-hard patriot and he cares for Pakistan thus he is returning. Otherwise he can live a very comfortable life in Pakistan. Our leaders of the day make millions through corruption in Pakistan and take it over, Musharraf made his millions by speaking to various forums and pushed forth Pakistan's case everywhere and he intends to come back to Pakistan.
Qualitatively, Musharraf is in a league all his own and none of these people that we call politicians/democrats even come close to him.
Give him a chance. He will moderate Pakistan's politics. You need checks and balances against the corruption and high handedness of the PPP and the PML-N. PTI cannot do all of this on its own. You need multiple power centers in Pakistan instead of letting the chors of PPP and PML-N tag team every five years as they pillage Pakistan.
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Mar 15, 2013 04:48pm
well said. it's time to save country not democracy and so called political parties.He got the experience and he is the best person to lead from such downfall situation and moreover he is sincere to Pakistan.He still can run the country better then all the rest of the politicians.
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Mar 15, 2013 04:52pm
He had to leave to make people understand how corrupt the current rulers are. Even when he left Pakistan, the government has confiscated his property and created fake cases against him. Even when abroad, he always defended Pakistan in his lectures (which pays him very handsomely - this is called halal ka paisa, unlike other politicians money).
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Mar 15, 2013 05:12pm
Taliban were created when Benazir was prime minister
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Mar 15, 2013 05:17pm
I see only fear in the eyes of the politicians when the word Musharaf comes in media
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Mar 15, 2013 05:31pm
I heard a few solid accusations against him from people inside the institutions and locals to such areas where events happened. Three examples are sale of Habib Bank (sold for nothing
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Mar 15, 2013 05:38pm
Wouldn't greed for power be considered a dishonesty to the nation????? So how does it make him an honest man.
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Mar 15, 2013 05:39pm
and e) he implemented NRO, which brought PPP to power to plunder Pakistan.
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Mar 15, 2013 05:48pm
Imran Khan is nothing but an arrogant person ... he is, and he always was! Even when he was Captaining team Pakistan, his attitude was the same, and it has not changed. We need leaders that are sensible not arrogant.
We need leaders like Gen. Musharraf. No matter how much our country hates army, but it is the fact that we would be nothing if army wasn't there to support and protect us. During his era, Gen. Musharraf did all good stuff - from boosting economy to protecting people to keeping peace in Pakistan (overall) - people during his era weren't scared to go out of their home as they are today. The economy was blooming ... the country had enough survival resources ... today, the currency is down the drain - US$1 = Rs.100. During the 9 year tenture of Gen. Musharraf, our currency was stable at US$1 = Rs.50. In 5 years of the so-called Democratic government killed the economy.
We need Gen. Musharraf back ... and people should be thankful to him for even thinking about returning back regardless of fears of loss of his life. He is an army man, and they don't fear loss of their lives! Long live Gen. Musharraf and hope he returns back to win the elections! All the best General saheb!
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Mar 15, 2013 05:53pm
Benazir's own brother died in her own rule. Don't you remember that? Then why did you elect PPP government? Gen. Musharraf had nothing to do with BB's murder ... all the cases against him are politically motivated. All garbage!
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Mar 15, 2013 06:00pm
Later Naeem later; have patience, like minded will have to make 'Alliance' later.
In Government or Opposition, will have to. Just like NOON & PPP/P.
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Mar 15, 2013 06:25pm
just do one thing,hold local bodies election throuhout Pakistan, and this country will be one of the livable country in the world but politician still believe in commissary system given by British so that wit the help of few corrupt people can rule the whole province.
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Mar 15, 2013 06:33pm
Hyder:dirty politics of pakistan will make his life miserable - he should enjoy his retired life in london/dubai rather than taking risk of his life. He had the best opportunity in life as army chief and president of pakistan for 10 years. at present no one has the capability at this crucial time to change the destiny of pakistan (except martial law), its in a worst situation.Let us face the truth.
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Mar 15, 2013 07:19pm
I think he should not be allowed to contest election, he is not a fit candidate for our country, his fault are , he is honest, he can face media national and international with courage, he prove himself as an assets, he care about economic, he is popular among common people,he is popular internationally and a clean person.He is not religiously fanatic.he is popular in all province, he is not popular in media and bureaucrats.
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Mar 15, 2013 07:31pm
Imran support Taliban one way or the other, he failed to give concrete economic policy, I mran does not have faith on himself and nation he welcome all corrupt ex minister and politician he ignore his old party workers His party accept all feudal and ex corrupt minister, .because of that he changed his policy for land reform.He favored nationalist
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Mar 15, 2013 08:02pm
I love Musharaf sir because i love Pakistan, he is the only leader who can take Pakistan out of crisis. PPP and PMLN have agendas for own leaders/representatives interests. They are not keen in the well being of general public. Long live Pakistan and long live Musharaf sir!
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Mar 15, 2013 09:28pm
Musharaf+MQM+Imran=Pakistan
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Mar 15, 2013 09:33pm
He will be back on the 24th of March
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Mar 15, 2013 09:51pm
Loyal to the Corps.
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Mar 15, 2013 09:53pm
What is hanging over his head is the Benazir Bhutto assassination.
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Mar 15, 2013 10:01pm
Pakistan is like the Roman Empire. Let Caesar return to Rome.
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Mar 15, 2013 10:18pm
You forgot NRO, another feather in Musharraf's hat.
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Mar 15, 2013 10:19pm
and e) NRO.
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Mar 15, 2013 10:25pm
The government is going to arrest General Musharraf and not Uzair Baloch. What does that tell us?
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Mar 15, 2013 10:49pm
Unfortunately Pakistan has reached the lowest depth of instability possibly in the entire world. The only thing good is left in Pakistan is its Nuclear Arms and its Brave Army. Its all political and religious leaders are a shame for this country seeing the killings and bombings and sectarian violence that is going on, on a daily basis. The only glimpse of hope for Pakistan is a leader with military background to use his experience, judgment and support of military to save Pakistan and not consensus from those who have absolutely no clue how to save Pakistan. There is one glimpse of hope that may be, Musharraf will save Pakistan and possibly he will be the last person to save Pakistan.
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Mar 15, 2013 10:51pm
If I were in his place I would have never come back. What is more precious than life and to try something so daring at such a late stage. But may be love of the nation is strong (which is something very difficult to swallow) that he wants to put his life at risk. If he is good the majority of the leaders which have a proven track record of corruption won't let him take a single breath in Pakistan. It is almost impossible for a good person to find any space in pakistani politics
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Mar 15, 2013 11:18pm
Pervez Musharraf for PM:)
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Mar 16, 2013 12:23am
I think Pakistani people do not need his presence in the country. Whatever he did harm in the past that's enough, Pakistan at this time in need of a dedicated patriotic politician who at any cost can uphold the integrity and sovereignty of the country. Pakistan expects and can embrace the only politician at this time who can prove his uncompromising well balanced leadership and dedication to bring the nation back from every chaos and confusions.
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Mar 16, 2013 12:42am
PPP became powerfull when it was treated unjustly and bhutto was assisnated
if musharraf is arrested it will be seen as political and support for him could swell could the established parties make a martyr out of him or will they just bear with him as a thorn in thier side
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Mar 16, 2013 01:21am
Musharraf is the cause of the problems we are facing in our country now. He is hiding in comfortable London, using our country's money. If he returns, he should be tried and hung like Z. Bhutto.
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Mar 16, 2013 01:33am
First of all, there is no politician in the world without greed of power. He is very powerful man and is the only one on the horizon who can get the country out of the mess that it is in. I don't think he has lost his charm, and even if he is unable to form the government, he will still be an influential man to keep the government on the track.
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Mar 16, 2013 01:36am
I also completely agree. It will be a good for Pakistan if he is in power again. I believe that his previous experience will help him a lot.
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Mar 16, 2013 01:39am
I fully agree. He has been tested, but he did not fail the way others have.
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Mar 16, 2013 01:42am
Ikhan, you better get your facts straight - none of the things you said are true.
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Mar 16, 2013 02:10am
I think he should return to Pakistan. His term was good. Although he did made some mistakes but, had also learned from those mistakes.
He seem to had a military mindset of commanding, which need to change. You cannot command a nation. Being said that in the last could of years from his speeches and disucssion he had show flexibility. He seem to be a man who learns and accept his mistakes and that are the type of people we need. People to have courage to accept and learn their mistakes.
He should get a change in Pakistan politics however, it is important that he maintained his integrity.
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Mar 16, 2013 02:11am
I read all the comments below and found that over whelming majority is in favor of Musharraf. I also noticed that for all the favorable comments, the number of thumbs-up is far greater than thumbs-down.
It is very encouraging to notice that. It makes me wonder if it is only the educated and intellectual people who are in favor of Musharraf or the general public is that way. If the general public is in favor of Musharraf, he will perform well in the elections.
If educated people are so much in favor of Musharraf, they should help him in every possible way in the elections. Being in silent majority will not do much. The only thing of consequence is what we do.
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Mar 16, 2013 03:09am
I agree also.
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Mar 16, 2013 04:00am
I supported Musharraf from his first minute in the office to his last, but I won't vote for him now. We simply have better options now. We have people as honest and sincere as him but more courageous. His recent comments on Iran-Pakistan pipeline once again demonstrate that deep down inside he is very frightened .of the Farangis. It is this fear that made him do two shameful things, handing over of the Afghan ambassador to the Americans and false accusations against Dr. AQ Khan. I do support his action on Bugti and Lal Masjid.
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Mar 16, 2013 04:05am
Musharraf thought he was creating free media, what he has created is another opportunity for big business and big business is as much a part of the status quo as any corrupt politician.
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Mar 16, 2013 04:11am
1. Economy during Military dictatorships is normally good, as the US and IMF largesse is maximum then. With the passing of the Kerry-Luger bill, hopefully the US has finally plugged this loophole.
2. I don't know enough about the factors affecting energy, so no comments there.
3. Musharraf was forced like never before to undertake "enlightened moderation" and act against Taliban by the US, you are speaking as if he had some choice in the matter. Remember that it was during the fag end of his regime, when the establishment started talking about "Good" and bad Taliban. You really think there was any possibility for GHQ to ever to let go of "Strategic depth" without the most compelling pressure?
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Mar 16, 2013 04:13am
I don't think we can blame Musharraf for Benazir Bhutto or Lal Masjid. Benazir was provided adequate security, nothing can stop a man willing to die. She died because she stuck her head out of the vehicle, everybody inside the vehicle was safe and sound.
The Lal Masjid operation was entirely justified, a band of blood thirsty terrorists had a staging area in the center of our capitol.
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Mar 16, 2013 06:59am
Because of his military back ground, he only knows giving orders and respecting orders and lacks the art of negotiating with others which is an essential part of politics in the subcontinent. Even if he contests, it is unlikely that his party will come to power. He may face a lot of political wrath also.
But people of Pakistan need to understand that, he is the only person who can set right the law and order situation which Pakistan needs most at this juncture rather than the economic growth. He is a clever man, leave the things to him.
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Mar 16, 2013 07:09am
I can bet that if USA starts distributing free Visas to you all, you will sell all your stuff and leave Pakistan and pledge allegiance to the red white and blue. We should face our problems and not run away from them. Musharraf should be allowed to come back. We have a free judiciary now, as we Pakistani's believe, so why not use it and not throw away our tax money. He made mistakes, but who hasn't, even Z.A Bhutto made mistakes though we choose to ignore them and call him the greatest hero of all time. Pakistan progressed in all directions during his time he should be given credit for it.
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Mar 16, 2013 07:28am
He is being trapped.He should be careful as every one will leave him and he would be left alone to face innumerable miseriies and problems..He threatened to come before also but changed his mind.Let see how determined is he this time..May be lawyers like me make money out of him..He has no chance what so ever.
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Mar 16, 2013 07:30am
Come on, he is not an honest man!! Where did he get the money to buy expencive properties in May Fair, Middle East etc. We can thank him for letting others overrule our suverenity. A coward man in uniform who needs a reality check. The problem is that we have been suffering for five years under the unarguably most corrupt and damaging government ever, that it makes even people like Musharraf look slightly better. Spare us for an other round with these crooks. Vote for PTI! Its about Pakistans existence.
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Mar 16, 2013 07:31am
You cant be sane!
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Mar 16, 2013 08:53am
Very well said, Pakistan first, these r Musharaf's own words, May The Almighty forgive our sins & bring a ruler who can look after the poors
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Mar 16, 2013 09:00am
I wonder why not, I think the Pakistani people r tired of false hopes
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Mar 16, 2013 09:02am
You must be joking & I think u r.
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Mar 16, 2013 09:09am
Agreed 100%, we have nothing to loose, lets bring him & hope for the best, may be he is the one, everyone make mistakes, I m looking forward for his success, we all need change
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Mar 16, 2013 09:16am
you r right, be fair people
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Mar 16, 2013 09:27am
There are some aspects of Musharraf phenomena which did not get mentioned above ;
1- Should any factor however big be allowed to justify illegal takeovers and abrgation of consitution which he did twice? Yes or no. If no then he must be tried and put in prison for treason.
2- When his performance of 8 years was not sufficient to erase people support of mainstaream parties which he made his mission to eleiminate , then he resorted to biggest bribe in the history of the conutry that is NRO.Why should he be given a second chance after what he did to the country ?
3- His support is limited to English reading elite and face book crowd only . But even with popular support should we compromise principles big time. My answer is no.
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Mar 16, 2013 09:31am
I have watched Musharaf's interviews he admitted his mistakes all I know is I m very hopeful, rest only Allah knows.
May the Almighty guide all of us to walk on "SIRATUL MUSTAQEEM.
In todays khutba the Imam of our masjid in Corona California spoke about our religion to be moderate then I wonder what r we all doing he also told us to " LIVE LIFE LIKE U R GOING TO LIVE FOREVER BUT PREPARE FOR THE DAY OF JUDGEMENT LIKE THIS IS YOUR LAST DAY" do I need to say any more, InshaAllah that day will come very soon when everyone will see peace in Pakistan.
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Mar 16, 2013 09:40am
THE NATION IS IN PERPLEXED SITUATION AND LOST THE HOPE/TRUST FROM POLITICAL LEADERSHIP................ THE NATIONS REVOLUTION...........
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Mar 16, 2013 09:41am
looking for revolution not evolution of political stability......
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Mar 16, 2013 10:04am
This may be a good sermon, but where this man will come from? and who he is? Mr. perfect is not on the planet earth! A patriotic politician in Pakistan - never seen one yet?
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Mar 16, 2013 10:09am
Perhaps better then almost all elected politicians for the past 50 years! Mr. Bhutto ruined economy by nationalising industries and banks etc..
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Mar 16, 2013 10:21am
why cant he simply become a elder statesman . he would gain respect if he becomes stops taking part in elections and comes on various TV shows like sheikh rashid etc .
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Mar 16, 2013 10:25am
he did not harm the country . the people who harmed the country were the politicians who just completed their evil tenure . these guys ruined every thing and kept looting the treasury till the last minute . imagine they had to keep the banks open on a holiday so that they could take away what ever was left in the treasury and you mr razaqque are running down musharraf who stabilized the economy and did so many good things for the country .
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Mar 16, 2013 10:43am
Any body can come back to Pakistan. It is everybody's fundamental right. But he should not be elected for any public position. The mess we are in today is result of Zia-ul-Haq's and his policies.
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Mar 16, 2013 11:39am
I believe that he do good for the country atleast keep corruption under some what control.
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Mar 16, 2013 11:43am
A true statesman, he will of course return I have no doubt at all. God bless Pak and Musharaf!!!
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Mar 16, 2013 11:58am
If there is any rule of law, this guy should be arrested as soon as he enters the borders of Pakistan.
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Mar 16, 2013 01:43pm
do you think our judicatory comprise of honest judge?
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Mar 16, 2013 01:45pm
You are so right!!
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Mar 16, 2013 02:32pm
Musharaf lived an army-life,he should live a retired-army-man life.No pro-democratic man would love to see him again dictating Pakistan.Let him come,should be tried for treason.
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Mar 16, 2013 02:34pm
He should come back to our country and then we should hang him like Bhutto for the horrible mess that he created in the country.
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Mar 16, 2013 02:43pm
He is so unpredictable.
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Mar 16, 2013 02:44pm
if he comes back, i fear he would meet the same destiny as BB did.
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