In a surprising political development, Asif Ali Zardari, the widower of Pakistan’s first female premier Benazir Bhutto, has been elected to serve a second term as the country’s president. Mr. Zardari’s journey in the political arena has been characterized by a blend of tragedy and controversy, including allegations of corruption and involvement in peculiar kidnapping plots.
Born in 1955 into a land-owning family in the southern province of Sindh, Asif Ali Zardari initially gained prominence as Bhutto’s consort. However, his political career has been marred by accusations, earning him the moniker “Mr. Ten Percent” due to alleged kickbacks for contracts.
Despite the controversies surrounding him, a sympathy vote played a significant role in propelling him to the presidency in 2008, following the tragic assassination of Benazir Bhutto in a bomb and gun attack. During his initial term, from 2008 to 2013, Zardari implemented constitutional reforms that curtailed presidential powers, shifting towards a more ceremonial role.
His second term, secured through a coalition deal after recent elections, is expected to be largely symbolic. Zardari’s political comeback has been facilitated by a combination of astute maneuvering and resilience, earning him the nickname “artful dodger.” He is slated to take the oath of office on Sunday, marking his return to a prominent position in Pakistan’s political landscape.
By AFP
