Pakistani papers were abuzz with the impeachment proceedings to take place soon against General Musharraf. Most commentary reflected a sense of relief at this development.

Dawn (August 8) says that both Asif Ali Zardari and Nawaz Sharif were confident of impeaching Musharraf. It quotes Zardari, “I don’t think the coalition and democracy are so weak that any person can use Article 58-2(b)”, in response to a question about the possibility of the president dissolving the assemblies”.

The Nation (August 8) says that the unanimous decision taken by the PPP-led coalition in Islamabad has “... also boosted the image of the political leadership in the eyes of the general public ...” The report adds, “the bold decision taken by the leaders is being interpreted by political analysts as a crucial move, which, if backfired, could have serious ramifications for future of democracy in the country; and if it meets success, the salutary impact it would have on the democratic process, would be immeasurable”. The News (August 8) dubbed the move to impeach Musharraf as “the first joint and the most powerful blow to Pervez Musharraf”.

The pessimists

But while many rejoice, the legal fraternity is not happy as the demand for reinstatement of deposed judges has been linked with Musharraf’s impeachment, according to The Nation.

There is also cynicism regarding the coalition government’s strategy on development matters. Says an editorial in Dawn (August 8) “What the PPP and PML-N leaders should know is that President Musharraf’s removal from the scene will merely remove a perceived hindrance in the way of good governance...” Many are also sceptical about the decision to impeach Musharraf as it is not the first time that the PML-N has given an ultimatum to the PPP and the latter has backed off according to Masooda Bano ( The Nation, August 8).

... contd.