Dear SS, Now I have read almost all of your posts. I know that Musharraf is a great patriot. He thinks from his heart and head. How can anyone forget that he took an unpopular choice of going with the US immediately post 911? If he wanted to be popular he would have pleased his people-but it would have been shortlived. Pak would have been invaded by the US and India (remember those hot parliament attack times)
However, I still feel that the number of extremists and their sympathisers are still in a minority though the extremists actions are significant. It is always the shouting brigade that gets noticed-however it must be remembered that the silent are most of the times are a majority. It is only the NWFP that got infested. Punjab and SIndh are more or less peaceful and civilised. Balochi ofcourse not! But Punjab and SIndh are the lifelines of Pak!
Regarding a strong and a benevolent dictator remember the fallacy of French Revolution. The French after pulling down monarchy chose Napolean as Emperor the very instituion they wanted to demolish and bring democracy!
Benevolanet dictator tempts following generations that they can become one of him/her.
A free and fair election may initially bring right wing sympathisers but in the long run the system finds its equilibrium. It is a slow process; but it is a right process and a sure one.
Punjab and SIndh are the most populous ones and a free election should bring responsible representatives.
