Pakistan papers slam Musharraf's big 'if'

0 Comments | AFP, September, 2007

ISLAMABAD (AFP) — Pakistani newspapers Wednesday urged President Pervez Musharraf to commit to full democracy, a day after he pledged to quit as army chief -- but only if he wins re-election.

Papers seized on the condition stipulated by the military ruler. The English-language Dawn titled its editorial "If elected..." while The News putting the offending phrase in italics in its headline.

"What happens if he is not elected? Will General Musharraf, in that case, continue to remain the army chief and breathe down the necks of the president and the prime minister?" Dawn said.

Musharraf's lawyer said on Tuesday that he intends to seek re-election in uniform by the current parliament in a ballot that is due by mid-October, saying that he will step down from the...