Generals only see things from a security perspective. In periods of transition there is often little choice but to have a general as the overall person in charge. The key is a timetable for returning to civilian rule.
It’s possible that after September 11 and the attempt on his life, Musharraf had no choice but to take over. But now, years later, the soldier must go back to the barracks and allow civilians to rule. Naturally this needs to be done gradually. The key is a timetable that all groups and parties can sign on to. General Musharraf would do well to begin talking with as many and as diverse a group of leaders as possible so that they can agree on basic principles and a timetable. Then he must move towards implementing this, no matter what the final result is, and no matter what the Americans think.
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