Leila's blog

Mon, Nov 05, 2007

The enemy of your enemy is your friend

The actions of President Musharraf of Pakistan are blatantly politically motivated. The reasons are obvious: influencing any elections that are held by displaying his strength; frightening opponents; securing his candidacy through exerting pressure on the judiciary. The question is, therefore, not why he has called a state of emergency but how he can get away with it internationally. He clearly believes that the powers that be (USA, EU, China) are not going to hold him to account. He has this immunity due to "mutually beneficial business" with these countries and from his "cooperation on the war on terror" (BBC Radio 4, 6pm News). Musharraf is advertising the insurance policy for all other dictators and wannabees - cooperate where it matters, back it up with a nuclear arsenal, and the west will turn a blind eye to what you do at home beyond some pitiful bleating.

Meanwhile, hubby is rubbing his hands with glee at the financial news. Seeing in it an impending international collapse of the 'debt economy'. I don't blame him, but do suspect the the world economy and supporters of neo-capitalism have more tricks up their sleeves. Either way, enjoy the fireworks.

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