Pakistani President Vows to Fight for Democracy
June 29, 2010
By: Randi Zung

On June 21, the Associated Press of Pakistan reported that President Asif Ali Zardari vowed to fight back against anti-democratic forces that are currently impeding the spread of democracy in the country.  Addressing a large crowd, President Zardari said that the government would work to strengthen the country’s democratic structure.  Following President Zardari’s statement, United States Vice President Joe Biden stated that the Obama administration is committed to ensuring stability and democracy in Pakistan.  RRT News reported that during a telephone conversation about US-Pakistan relations President Zardari told Vice President Biden that the Pakistani government is "committed to [fighting] and [defeating] extremists and terrorists of all hues." 

In Foreign Policy’s annual Failed State Index, Pakistan was listed as a “critical” country because of the country’s poor record of implementing development initiatives, combating poverty, and ensuring the rights of women.   However, as Foreign Policy points out, although Pakistan suffers from numerous economic and social ills, democracy has managed to take root.  Despite public accusations of corruption, under President Zardari’s leadership, the powers of the president were reduced and the country’s legislative branch was returned to a parliamentary democracy.  According to Foreign Policy, President Zardari’s willingness to let go of political power is in line with the country’s mission to strengthen democracy.  Recently, the Pakistani government has worked to stabilize the country by pledging to rid the country of Taliban forces, increased internal security efforts, and expanded educational opportunities. 

For previous news on Pakistan, please see: http://ccd21.org/news/asia/pakistan_constitutional_dispute.html

Sources:
Associated Press of Pakistan - President Zardari vows to fight back anti-democracy elements.

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