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The Political Genius – Asif Ali Zardari

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Husnain Haider Hamdani
The Political Genius – Asif Ali Zardari

Asif Ali Zardari the Mard-e-Hurr was incarcerated in 1996 for the first time. A day before President Farooq Leghari dismissed Benazir Bhutto's government on corruption charges, Asif Zardari was arrested and sent to prison. Contrary to the popular belief regarding his corruption and conduct as a public office holder, the justice system in the country could not prosecute him successfully. Nevertheless, by the time he came out in 2004, he had already become an icon of resistance for political workers in the country.

 

Zardari's character has been continuously attacked and the allegations leveled against him were unspeakable. On one hand, he was continuously under fire from his opposition, be it civil or military, yet he continued with sheer commitment towards his party’s goal. Without discussing the merits and demerits of the charges against him, one can not deny the fact that he is the most powerful negotiator and the most refined politician in the country. Zardari’s brilliance has led a failed Pakistan Democratic Movement to a moral victory in no time.

 

In 2008 when a military dictator was leaving the power corridors, the country was under severe terrorism strike. The economy and other indicators were not good, and the elections delivered a hung parliament with no clear majority. PPP under the leadership of Asif Zardari took the reins and completed the term in a coalition setup. China Pakistan Economic Corridor, and initiating bilateral relations with Russia are the key highlights of his time as a president. More importantly, he transferred presidential powers to the Prime Minister by making the 18th Amendment.

 

Political differences and facts behind the allegations leveled against Zardari are debatable. As a legal practice, everyone must admit that until the courts decide otherwise the accused is not guilty. Once that approach is adopted, the Pakistani political circuit has no match for his wisdom and statesmanship. The ex-president has always stood for the resolution of national issues through dialogue. After Benazir Bhutto was assassinated, he chanted the slogan "Long live Pakistan" as the masses in Sindh were demanding a separatist movement.

 

Students of politics in the country must refer to Asif Ali Zardari’s policy of reconciliation. In a country that is widely divided by language, ethnicity, sect, and culture rapprochement is the only way forward to resolve issues of mutual interest. The current moral success of No Confidence Motion in Pakistani politics is a masterstroke played by him. Within weeks, he turned the table on PTI’s regime, and coming Sunday will be their last day in the office. Once again the power corridors in the country will be shouting out loud “Ek Zardari, Sab Per Bhari”.  

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Husnain Haider Hamdani
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