Pak President Musharraf decides to step down

Islamabad, Aug 15: Pervez Musharraf, the beleaguered President of Pakistan has finally decided to quit instead of facing impeachment in Parliament. Report says that President had indicated to his aides on late Wednesday, Aug 14 evening that he would be the last person to create any adverse situation for the system.

He conceded the fact that he could not carry on with the incumbent government and any effort to prolong the prevailing situation could harm the national interests further. The picture outside the four walls of the Presidency has become clearer to him now and he has realised the fact that despite his 'services' the level of his acceptance has become negligible. In the circumstances he is working on his exit strategy, the sources revealed.

Another source said the President realised that he could be deprived of all the benefits of retirement if he was ousted through impeachment and he would be more vulnerable for trial if the government impeached him.

He also accepted the reality regarding his personal security if he insisted on staying back in the country immediately after he stepped down. The President would be allowed to return to the country at any time if he decided to proceed abroad soon after quitting, the sources said.

''Interlocutors at the administration level are discussing the modalities and arrangements for President Musharraf and his family once he announces his departure,'' the paper said.

The President has finally given up and he is not in a belligerent mood contrary to some of his visitors' portrayal about him after recent meetings with him. He has discarded the idea to enter into any constitutional battle with his adversaries, added a source.

President Musharraf spoke his mind to Chairman Senate Muhammadmian Soomro who enjoyed the music and cultural show in connection with the Independence Day celebrations with him at the President House on Wednesday. Soomro is supposed to take over the Presidency once President Musharraf calls it a day.

UNI