Pakistan is going through hard times with the elected government of Asif Ali Zardari at loggerheads with the powerful army headed by army chief General Ashfaq Pervez Kayani over the memogate also known as Mullen memo controversy. Since the leak surfaced, the government fears army takeover.
The buzz is that the confidential memo delivered to Obama Administration on behest of Zardari seeking US help in wake of military takeover has infuriated the army that has ruled the country earlier. Though the row has spilled over in the public but the army has managed the show decently by restraining its men.
But this has not stopped rumours from flying thick in the country about an imminent coup. If such a situation arises it would be a bad day for Pakistan that has seen the return of democracy after a long time. Moreover, its relation with the United States to has hit the roadblock following the the killing of Pakistani soldiers in a NATO strike and other developments.
An army takeover would further worsen the conditions. Moreover, with Arab spring sweeping across the Muslim countries, including Middle East, the army would not make a blunder of usurping the throne forcing the elected government to run for shelter somewhere else. It is too early to jump to any conclusion as civilians' views cannot be gauged at the moment. The fact is that many in Pakistan are upset with the elected government that is inefficient and has failed to address burning issues of security, development and inflation. But this is no excuse for a coup.
All said, Imran Khan, who is withdrawing huge crowds at his campaign rally, too has expressed his displeasure at the would be army takeover. It appears that the army will be looking for other ways to control democracy. And the best option for them would be to back Pervez Musharraf, who exiled in England, is planning to fly back to Pakistan and fight elections.
The real fight will begin then.
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