Sudanese liberalism

Omar al-Bashir’s government has whipped a 16-year old Christian girl 50 times for wearing a skirt that stopped at her knees.

Make of it what you will, but I am reminded of the effort to hold elections in Sudan. This juxtaposition recalls that liberal democratic institutions are entirely compatible with theocratic tyranny over the human spirit. Just ask Rebecca Nurse and Hester Prynne. Like we did 300 years ago, Sudan has a very long way to go.

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

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.