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Pakistan Now Owns War on Terror: Zardari

Blames corruption charges on political enemies

By Harry Kimball, Newser Staff

Posted Dec 28, 2009 9:33 AM CST

(Newser) – On the anniversary of Benazir Bhutto’s assassination, it is necessary to reflect on “how her legacy must be preserved against those who would return Pakistan to darkness,” writes the husband of the former prime minister, President Asif Ali Zardari. Zardari claims victory over militants in Swat, and now in South Waziristan, and touts “constitutional reforms” that will curb executive powers installed by dictators. As his wife said, “democracy is the greatest revenge.”

But for Zardari, writing in the Wall Street Journal, the reach of democracy in Pakistan falters in the courtroom, where he recently lost immunity from what he calls “ancient charges of corruption,” which he blames on enemies aiming to destabilize the elected government. But just as the people of Pakistan have taken “political ownership of the war against terrorism” and refuse to “let militants violently impose their political agenda,” Zardari says he will face his detractors. “Those of us who have fought for democracy against dictatorship for decades do not fear justice; we embrace it.”

[Images (1)]

[Quotes (1)]

Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari, right, displays a photo of his late wife former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto on the podium as he address the 64th session of the United Nations General Assembly. (AP Photo)

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Those of us who have been victims of dictatorship in the past believe in the rule of law and have faith in the judicial process. We believe, in the words of my wife, that "time, justice and the forces of history are on our side." - Asif Ali Zardari

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Pakistan Now Owns War on Terror: Zardari