Lecture on Pervez Musharraf's Tenure and Return to Pakistan

Introduction

• Subject: Return of Pervez Musharraf to Pakistan
• Key Points:
  • Former military dictator and president
  • Resigned in 2008 under political and judicial pressure

Early Career and Rise to Power

• 1999: Near war with India bolstered Musharraf's career but also sparked controversy
• Takeover: Ousted then-elected PM Nawaz Sharif through a military coup
• Titles: Initially called himself 'Chief Executive,' later became President
• War on Terror: Decision to join U.S.-led war unpopular in Pakistan

Involvement in U.S. Invasion of Afghanistan

• Played key role
• Deployed military on NW tribal border
• Historical context: Pakistan's intelligence and CIA trained fighters in the 80s Soviet War

Severing Ties with Militant Groups

• Aftermath: Al-Qaeda and affiliated groups targeted military and civilians
• Strategic Efforts: Agreements with tribal elders complicated by Washington's pressure
• India Relations: Attempted normalization failed

Political Downfall

• Key Event: Tried removing Chief Justice Iftikhar Chaudhry
• Public Response: Led to massive pro-Justice movement
• End of Rule: 10-year rule ended amid mounting challenges

Attempts to Solidify Power

• Allowed exiled political leaders to return
• Wiped old criminal cases under a reconciliation ordinance

Post-Resignation

• Formation: Created All Pakistan Muslim League
• Challenges: Military operations, drone bases, Laal Masjid action, constitutional disregard

Legal Issues

• Currently on temporary bail preventing arrest on multiple charges

Historic Parallel

• Last self-imposed exile: Benazir Bhutto, assassinated months after return

Current Situation

• Musharraf plans to return amidst similar threats