However, the conclusion is more important — that it is time for Musharraf to leave. The choice is between the devil and the deep blue sea. He could opt to fight it out. In that case, he might face impeachment, which is being suggested by a lot of people. The alternative is to seek a safe exit by resigning and leaving the country, which he might have to do once he leaves the presidency. There are enough unhappy people who might come gunning for him. In both cases, the chairman of the upper house of parliament, the Senate, would become the president until a new one is elected.

Not to mention the third option of continuing in power only with American help. But this is likely to make his position even more unenviable. Musharraf might have a better option of saving his own life if he left peacefully.

The author is an independent security analyst of Pakistan and is currently teaching at the University of Philadelphia. She is the first civilian to be the director of the Naval Research Institute of Pakistan. Views expressed are personal. ayesha.sidiqqa@gmail.com