I Changed My Mind

If President Pervez Musharraf wanted to convince Pakistan that he is serious about restoring democracy, he'd step down as army chief. In December 2003, Musharraf made a public vow to a block of legislators that he would mothball his uniform by the end of last year. But in a special address to the nation last week, Musharraf explained: "I have decided to retain both offices. In my view, any change to internal or external policies could be extremely dangerous for Pakistan."

Many doubted Musharraf's intention from the start. The military is Pakistan's strongest institution and a new army Chief...