Musharraf has Damaged Pakistan, says Time

“[Democracy is about] building lasting institutions such as a free press, an effective legislature and, most importantly, an independent judiciary”, says Time in an article. “By circumventing the constitution, and by twice dismissing the Supreme Court, Musharraf has inflicted long-term damage on the country.

“Given Pakistan's critical role in the global war on terror, his muscular methods for stabilizing a fractious nation were at first welcomed by some governments, especially Washington. “

The piece, titled “Musharraf's Strategic Retreat, goes on to add: “Establishing a lasting, fair and resilient democracy, however, requires not expediency but hard work, compromise and consensus-building. The rule of law is critical, for if a leader puts himself above the law, then stability only lasts for as long as he is in power.”

Author Aryn Baker lets drop an incisive if biting comment on Musharraf’s exit from the army: “[P]raising Musharraf for stepping down as army chief is akin to praising the honesty of a thief, who, having stolen and broken a priceless vase, returns it in pieces, with apologies.”