Pakistani President Pervez Musharraf’s resignation on Monday opened up a new brand of political uncertainty that left many Pakistanis jubilant, but also confused as to how the country will progress following almost nine years of military rule.
Pakistan has an opportunity now. An opportunity that just ten months ago seemed impossible. It was last November that Musharraf declared a state of emergency, suspended the constitution and put severe restrictions on the media. Musharraf defended his actions as necessary to combat militants, but many critics, myself included, called on him to protect human rights, end the media restrictions and ensure free and open elections.
As news of his resignation swept through Pakistan some celebrated with cakes and sweets, others with gunfire. But when the excitement fades, let’s hope the Pakinstani politicians choose freedom and democracy over a return to regressive policies that contributed to so much discontent.
