Pakistanis irked at U.S. administration’s support for Musharraf

Posted on February 29th, 2008 rtio 1 comment  Print This Post

Today’s New York Times article examines the growing frustration in Pakistan due to the Bush administration’s consistent support for President Musharraf. Despite the popular vote signaling a desire for change, the administration continues to support Musharraf as a key ally for US policy.

It is not unreasonable for security interests to trump those of democracy. However, the centrality of democracy promotion in political rhetoric necessitates that action backs up the rhetoric. Pakistan is a clear example of an opportunity to visibly stand by those calling for democracy, an opportunity to defy the perception that America only acts in its strategic interest.

As the article points out, the notion that Musharraf can rely on the military is becoming less certain. If the opposition majority becomes a reality, and if it becomes clear that General Kayani, not Musharraf, commands the loyalty of the military, then the US needs to be sure it stands on the side of democracy and not dictatorship. To avoid increasing resentment, and to stem the fading legitimacy of democracy promotion rhetoric, this shift should start sooner rather than later.