Pakistan's top commanders assure support for President Musharraf

Asian Political News, June 4, 2007

ISLAMABAD, June 1 Kyodo

Pakistan's top commanders assured President Pervez Musharraf of their full support Friday, a Defense Ministry press release said, as he faces the most serious challenge to his rule with the continuing agitation triggered by his dismissal of the chief justice of the Supreme Court in March.

''The Corps Commanders and Principal Staff Officers of the Pakistan Army affirmed to stand committed for the security of their country under the leadership and guidance of the President and the COAS (Chief of Army Staff),'' the press release issued after a meeting of the top commanders said.

It said participants at the meeting strongly reaffirmed the Pakistan Army's support for the continuity of the government's internal and external policies and reiterated support for the pivotal role of the president and the COAS in the ongoing reform process.

''The Pakistan Army is committed to lend full support towards realization of the vision set by the President for a dynamic, progressive and moderate Islamic state,'' the press release said.

Gen. Musharraf, who holds the dual office of army chief and president, has been criticized by the top judge, members of civil society and lawyers for grabbing the two posts in violation of the Constitution.

The reaffirmation of support by the top commanders could curb speculation that Pakistan Army generals will not support the president in the fight with Chief Justice Iftkhar Mohammad Chaudri.

Musharraf dismissed Chaudri after filing a reference of misconduct against him, triggering a nationwide campaign against the president.