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The Viewer's Forum is a platform where you can share your views with others on any particular current issue.

Would the seven-point agenda presented by General Pervez Musharraf
pave the way for true democracy in the future?

(Please be precise and avoid diverting from the question)

Note
The views in this forum are from the contributors' perspectives.
The Editor does not necessarily subscribe to the views.

Your Opinion

101. I just want to say to Mr. General Pervez Musharraf: "Now or Never". Time has come to do what the people of Pakistan have been waiting for all this time. Please do it...believe me if you do that then you will be the true HERO of Pakistan after Quaid-e-Azam. Please take out all the money from those politicians and their companions because that money belongs to Pakistan. But if you fail to do so, the people would think that there was no difference between you and Nawaz Sharif! Do something for the people of Pakistan this time.
     
     M. Ali
     USA
     
     
     
102. The seven-point agenda of the saviour of Pakistan is excellent. Why do you stress so much on democracy in Pakistan? Democracy has totally failed in Pakistan from day one of its birth. After so much harm done to the nation in the name of democracy for 52 years you are still hopeful? That is a shame. Democracy doesn’t suit the locals in Pakistan; the country has more of a tribal culture. We all should help and co-operate with Mr. Musharraf in restoring peace that was lost during the former governments. I salute the general for his courage.
     
     Maroof Qurashi
     USA
     
     
     
103. I believe that the seven-point agenda is a path that would lead the country to democracy, however for TRUE democracy the country MUST abandon Feudalism. The country has been structured by Feudalism since the British rule and it continues to exist today. This political approach hinders the country to exist as a true democratic state. Until that structure is abolished Pakistan cannot flourish as a true democratic nation.
     
     Haroon Haider
     USA
     
     
     
104. If by "democracy" we mean the form of government that is presently functioning in the UK, I don't think we are going to have that, or need that. I think this seven-point agenda would pave that way for a form of government that would be much more people-oriented than a lot of the previous "democratic" governments.
     
     Ahsan Taqweem
     Australia
     
     
     
105. Any agenda by a military ruler can not be fit for long-term stability of a country; hence this seven-point agenda again shall become useless. Only people’s elected government can produce the correct results because such a government is accountable to the countrymen.
     
     K.Lal
     India
     
     
     
106. If he is true to his words, may be!
     Tundiye baadey mukhalif say na ghabra aiy uqaab
     Yeh to chalti hai tujhay oonchaa udanay kay liye
     
     Iftikharul Hassan
     USA
     
     
     
107. The seven-point formula would definitely not help to pave the way for true democracy in Pakistan, as this was the case of late Gen. Ayub Khan, late Gen.Yahya Khan and late Gen. Zia-ul-Haq's marshal laws.
     However, if he truly implements what he has said, it would definitely help us out from the corrupt system. And why waste our tears on sham democracy, which has given us nothing Democratic set ups are right for those where accountability, sincerity and honesty have meaning, and not for a country like ours.
     
     Habib Hayat
     USA/Pakistan/UK
     
     
     
108. I really think that the Pakistanis could live freely if they work on it. I don't know how is the Pakistan; I'd love to visit it.
     
     Leticia Echartea
     Uruguay
     
     
     
109. Well, it is a start, however it is too early to make comments. I am optimistic, and hope General Pervez does make the right choices that well improve the lives of Pakistanis
     
     Nadeem Haq
     Canada
     
     
     
110. General Pervez Musharraf's 7-point agenda has been endorsed by the people. This shows the hopes people have pinned on this Army Government. We just want practical application of this agenda. None of the points of the agenda is impossible to achieve. General Pervez Musharraf has got all the power as well as support from the people and he can really do it. He has got a golden opportunity to change the fate of Pakistan and I am saying this also because I feel that he is capable of doing so.
     
     Haider Mahmud
     Canada
     
     
     
111. It will only perpetuate the Army rule. The irony is that Pakistan Army has never allowed democracy to prosper in Pakistan. It is beyond comprehension that Army will "strengthen the democracy". Let’s not kid anybody: Army is there to stay as long as it can and the seven points are mere hogwash.
     
     Helal N.Pasha
     USA/Pakistani
     
     
     
112. Yes, I sure do wish Gen. Musharaf all the best.
     
     Saeed Lodhi
     Kuwait
     
     
     
113. If we take an overview of the situation prevailing in Pakistan, we find a lot more things to be done than just the seven-point agenda. Ours is a very flexible type of nation; it always had a lot of potential to change and mould itself to what suddenly starts happening in the country. What we people lack in us is the value of vote. It’s about time we learnt the true essence of democracy; and for that we will have to start from the basics.
     
     We will have to educate our people and train them for what we have been testing them for, for the last eleven years. No one man can change the entire nation's fate in one night, it’s a whole nation which should stand accountable to itself first of all. Don’t elect people like, Nawaz who run the country like a corporation of their own or Benazir who likes to play with the country as if it was something she inherited when she was born.
     What I believe is that this army action should work as a wake-up call for the whole nation to react, let’s not always look to the army to pull us out of the mess.
     
     Faisal Malik
     Islamabad, Pakistan
     
     
     
114. Pakistan is at a critical point and we do not have time to experiment anymore. WE WANT A CHANGE; WE WANT A NEW SYSTEM. Perhaps a "controlled" democracy. WE MUST HAVE ACCOUNTABILITY. Please make swift and sweeping changes. May Allah give you strength and courage to change the destiny of the people of my PAKISTAN.
     
     Mr. Mumtaz Hussain.
     Bradford, England.
     
     
     
115. Yes it would; this is the only way the country would come out of its problems.
     
     Naveed Tariq
     UK
     
     
     
116. The present government should conduct Elections in the country within 90 days. All those people who have been elected at least one time to the National Assembly and Provincial Assembly shouldn’t be permitted to participate in elections. It is the duty of the present government to conduct transparent elections
     
     Shahzad A. Kamboh
     Pakistan
     
     
     
117. I have a different prospective. Who made politicians corrupt? If a politician claims that Army or MI offered him some money for rigging elections, or that if some party claims that a major supplied arms and ammo to a faction of MQM, then what would be your answer?
     
     Jumma Khan
     UK
     
     
     
118. It's not surprising to see one more military dictatorship in Pakistan. After all Pakistan has been ruled half of her life by the military. Musharraf has done a great mistake by imposing military rule. When he is dismissed by the elected government, he has to step down irrespective of whether the elected government is a good one or a corrupt one. It is certainly wrong though, on the part of Nawaz, to blame army for their debacle in Kargil. In democracy, a General can not be higher than the prime minister or a president. No agendas can give a stable and true democracy. Only faithful abiding to the constitution can give it.
     
     Ravindra
     India
     
     
     
119. I personally agree with the seven points of Gen. Pervez Musharraf and I request him to add one more point in his agenda that is, to put an end to the Bribe culture (Rishwat) in Pakistan. This is a last chance to make our nation a dynamic nation and Gen Pervez is our last hope. He can prove himself a dynamic and energetic leader as he proved this in his brilliant career. (AMEEN) Long live Pakistan.
     
     M M.Khan
     Pakistan
     
     
     
120. There is no doubt that the Chief of Army Staff took a right decision. But I am suspicious about what will happen next. I am surprised that the Chief has given four weeks to those who looted the nation's wealth. How can the persons looting the nation for 52 years, bring back the looted wealth within four weeks? On the other hand I was expecting that the Chief would hang all of them and snatch the looted wealth from them as soon as possible. The filthy nature of these politicians can never change. It is the best chance to get rid of this garbage and believe me, the nation will be thankful to Generals.
     
     M.Faisal
     Canada
     
     
     
121. For administrative purpose we can have more provinces/states in our country which will bring us new identity and a better system.
     
     Dr Syed Asim Ali, Arif Hayat Qureshi
     Australia
     
     
     
122. I would like to congratulate you and endorse your 7-point agenda. Following are the few suggestions I would like to share:
     Promote God-fearing and honest judges in all courts. Give them complete
     protection through army. The trial should be fair. All the corrupt people from every walk of life should be booked for their misdeed and given exemplary punishment. Every government department including Police, Army, Ranger, Electric Supply, Water Supply, Highway construction department, tax collection department, and State Bank should have God-fearing people on top level. There must be check and balance. If our country's top brass improves our country would improve as well. Bring land reforms and abolish Sardari, Jageerdari, and Wadera Nizam. Restructure police department. Education should be the top priority
     
     Hidayat Shaikh
     US
     
     
     
123. The seven-point agenda is not good enough! A totally Islamic dictatorship strictly according to the Sharia laws should be implemented. There should be strict purdah for women, and only Islamic teaching should be imparted at home. No other subjects except Islam should be taught.
     
     Nishad Takley
     India
     
     
     
124. I welcome the army as long as they set a time table for the elections, as you know all previous army generals have initially done the same for apparently saving the country, but later got involved in government fully and politically. May Allah save our country. Ameen
     
     Syed S. Hasnain
     USA
     
     
     
125. The army should do the things that the people of Pakistan are expecting from them. They also misguide people. If the army really wants to curb violence, it should restrict extremist religious groups.
     
     Azzam A
     USA
     
     
     
126. The seven-point agenda given by the General aims at restoration of law & order and economic and social reforms. It does not address the issue of paving the way for true democracy. A similar work was done by Gen. Ayub and Gen. Zia, but the country was put in reverse gear after restoration of democracy. In the West we see leaders with high academic and professional backgrounds. They are great thinkers and analysts. The only names that can come parallel with the Western leaders are those of Quaid-e-Azam, Allama Iqbal and Shaheed e Millat.
     
     We do have brains and expertise but they are away from the political scene. Many of them are serving abroad. To block the way of illiterate and greedy politicians we should introduce eligibility criterion requiring at least a Master’s degree in Political Science or equivalent and relevant experience to be considered for the post of Premier. Similar criterion should be adopted for other ministers. All political parties that cannot bring forward such leaders should be dissolved. This is the only quick solution to bring a mature leadership while avoiding unnecessary amendments in the existing constitution. This will rid us of illiterate feudal lords and the educated but immature politicians. Retired servicemen and expatriates, who are the cream of our nation, would be encouraged to utilise their knowledge and experience in the development of our beloved homeland.
     
     Dr. Waseem Sharieff
     Canada/Pakistani
     
     
     
127. Is the General a doer or just someone who makes statements, only time will tell. There should be no elections for at least a few years. All found guilty of corruption etc should be permanently barred from politics. I sincerely hope that this turns out to be what we have all been waiting desperately for.
     
     Hasan
     USA
     
     
     
128. The recent issue has invited some good suggestions, but I disagree with the idea to start to an investigation from 1999 stretching to 1947, for the amount of money that would be incurred in doing so.
     
     1) We should concentrate more on recent frauds and blunders rather than on closing loopholes made during the last 50 years.
     2) Filter out all bad conduct performers from the key posts to smoothen the operations.
     3) Recruit officers with management and administrative skills.
     4) Extensive education programs; like opening short-term education for elder citizens, open mobile libraries, enhancing habits of reading.
     5) Put some logos on each grade syllabus like "Such bolo", "mulk se muhabat karo", "acha kam khuda ka and bura kam shaitan ka" etc.
     6) For history and religion, appoint a "THINK TANK" to eradicate contradictory syllabus which reflects our minds in real life.
     7) Start military training at all levels and teach each individual a lesson of responsibility and discipline.
     8) Implement a social security program on the American pattern.
     9) Ask big businesses and factories to make long and short term programs for unemployed persons with the help of the Government subsidy.
     10) The cabinet or Mushawarati council should consist of a person having no connections with people of the past regimes. Better to pick those who are totally new and fresh.
     
     Ehsan Ali
     Pakistan
     
     
     
129. Let’s hope and pray that whatever has been said about EHTESAB will take place and will not become a tool for corrupt rulers to fill their pockets. We will find out their intentions before the 4 weeks are over. And if they prove not to be corrupt then you can expect them to do some good for the country. We should give him a fair chance to show us that they aren't and won't be the same as previous rulers. As a regular citizen of Pakistan, I know the biggest reason why we have such a bad history with politics and politicians. I am sure that Mr. General and the military high command should also be aware of this big reason. This reason is called JAGIRDARI NIZAM or VADERA SHAHI. If this Vadera system, which is unique in the world, could be abolished, we will see a real change in our political system. Until that happens, no matter how good the intentions or how clean the rulers are nothing good would be done for the motherland. This is the thing to do for a better Pakistan. This is the time to do it. This will separate you from the others. Only the military has the power to do it. If this military govt. could achieve this goal, this would be the real victory for Pakistan.
     
     Hafeez
     USA
     
     
     
130. Today Pakistan is in complete darkness as stated by Gen. Musharraf. I fully agree with him. This is the time to think over the causes of this great mishap. Don't blame few individuals for the whole mess, it was the brutal murder of all the democratic institutions in the country which has created leaders like Nawaz Sharif who after eating all the wealth of our country was feeling secure. The mess that was created by martial laws in the past has to be cleaned now. We have to revive the political institutes, restore the sanctity of the institutions, and curb violence in politics. To kill a few black sheep in politics of Pakistan will not do. The army is given a chance to undo the wrongs of the army in the past; hope they learn from their mistakes.
     
     Safdar Rasheed Malick
     South Africa
     
     
     
131. I think yes, if these ideas are implemented in true spirit. Implementation of this agenda needs a true dedicated Islam and Pakistan-loving team. Selection of advisory council and governors is very crucial, as this will give us a clue as to whether the leadership is making independent decisions or not. People will be very upset and understandably so if they see people like Moeen Qureshi, GIK, Yaqoob Khan in interim set-up. We want accountability to start without any delay and should be for all sections of society including army generals and civil bureaucrats. We as a nation need to stand firm and resolute so that no foreign pressure is allowed to override Pakistan’s national interests. I think overhauling the electoral system and introduction of proportional representation are required.
     
     Basharat Sahi
     United Kingdom
     
     
     
132. An agenda of seven points itself cannot pave the way for democracy. Only the stiff honest implementation of these points will pave the way.
     
     I.S Khan
     The Netherlands
     
     
     
133. The seven-point agenda is laying the plan for the road towards democracy. Unless this is followed by "concrete" action, the ride towards democracy would be bumpy. With an agreement that the seven-point agenda would pave the way I would like to comment on one of the points as follows:
     The government should be focused as a laser on creating jobs. From the jobs in bricks, mortar, mining to computer software and hardware industries, all types of workers and professionals can start contributing to the GDP. The current demand world-wide is for cheaper high-tech goods and services. Due to dollar-to-rupee parity, Pakistan can be a very economical supplier of these products. Economically satisfied people would be great help in paving the way to true democracy.
     
     Murad Mirza
     Canada
     
     
     
134. Yes, in my opinion General Pervez Musharaf has done a great job by saving the country. I appeal to General Musharraf and Pakistan army not to hold elections. We want accountability, justice, and sincere and faithful people in management. All the political parties and leaders should be banned. Please do not let anybody from any political party be part of the new Government. Otherwise we will be standing where we were before the military take-over.
     
     Kamran Saeed
     USA
     
     
     
135. The actual question is not a seven-point agenda; the actual question is whether it can be followed through or not. The keyword here is "IMPLEMENTATION". Our governments (all of them) have been very good at creating agendas and action-plans etc. The only thing which remains to be seen is if Gen Musharraf can see his agenda through to the end. Only then will it be of any use to the nation.
     
     Dr. A Akram
     UK
     
     
     
136. A seven-point agenda seems very good on paper but the real thing is whether it is applicable or not. There is no way we should think that army is the solution of every thing. Everybody has to take the responsibility for this act and there should be accountability for everyone, from top to bottom. I also think that democracy is not the number one priority of Pakistan; but at the same time I am worried what will be the future of the country if the army fails to meet the high standards which we have set for them.
     
     Shahid Yakoob
     USA
     
     
     
137. It does not matter how many points’ agenda you put in, it’s the people that govern. There is nothing 100% foolproof, people will find loopholes and abuse the power. Our rulers have always cheated the people, I do not see any quick remedy or quick patch-up better than the army rule. Right now Pakistan has to be very careful who is handling the nuclear weapons. Our economy is ruined; people do not get justice. This has been happening since 1969. The army has to clean up the political garbage first, then implement the new agenda. I wish you good luck, hope you are the man the people of Pakistan are looking for.
     
     Maqbool Ahmed
     USA/Pakistani
     
     
     
138. Yes I agree with what General Pervez did. But it is necessary to implement all what he said. Because the people of Pakistan have already listened to many speeches similar to the one given by the General but haven’t seen any results yet. This is why Pakistan is now at a stage where its economy and other things are near to an end. It would be an interesting spectacle to see all corrupt politicians hang.
     
     Nazar Ahmad Usmani
     Chicago
     
     
     
139. If the people say they don’t have any "rights" or "representation" in decision-making under a martial law regime then I would say it’s the same under democracy. You have chosen a lesser evil person out of the system, and he gives a damn if you are alive or dead. And even in previous martial laws the "common man" on the street was the same. He did not have any say in any government.
     
     We need a govt of professional people. A supreme body should be formed which should make decisions unanimously. It should have people from all the major institutions- the army, judiciary, economy, external and internal affairs, and a representative from each province- a total of 10 people, and the president. This supreme body should deliberate on issues and make a joint decision, which should go to the president for implementation. Beneath this supreme body should be 3 major institutions: an assembly comprising of elected representatives, a think-tank comprising 50 people to be selected for one year each, and a body comprising of the heads of all the institutions in Pakistan (PARC, PAEC, SUPARCO, PTV, banks, etc.) The structure should be such that all of these bodies form various opinions and suggestions and send them to the supreme council which deliberates on them and sends them to the president. The 3 minor assemblies should not have any executive, economic or judicial powers at all. Another thing is that we do not need dozens of ministries. The centre should have economy, defence and external affairs only. The rest of powers should be given to similar set up in the provinces.
     
     Aamer Aziz
     Japan
     
     
     
140. He who rides a tiger (elected despot or enlightened and sincere general) cannot dismount. The hungry tiger waits. The best way is to create the atmosphere to get off the tiger. That unfortunately lies in the hands not just of the general alone. As Pogo the American cartoon character said "Sir we have finally met the enemy- it is us."
     
     Anand V Rao
     USA
     
     
     
141. Other than trying to meet the 7-point that Gen.Pervez Musharraf has mentioned in his speech, he should also consider these points:
     -Establishment of such a system that the administration, technocrats and politicians are forced to work ONLY for the betterment of people. This can be done by adopting "permanent" accountbility system at each level.
     -Crackdown on "Firqa Parast Groups", as they can harm the unity of people in the future.
     - Establishment of a democratic system with power not in only one hand.
     - Educate people about True Islamic Society Principles, for "our rulers reflect our society".
     
     At last I would like to WARN Gen Pervez Musharraf that you are given a chance to prove yourself as loyal and sincere to Pakistan by doing your best, so that you are remembered in history for the good work.
     
     Shahid Iqbal
     USA/Pakistani
     
     
     
142. Any change in Pakistan seems for the better. But it seems like Pakistan has taken a giant step backwards when the rest of the world is about to step forward into the next millennium. I was surprised that a democratic country like Pakistan embraced military rule with such zeal. Since corruption is not only rampant among the political circles but in the military also. If two or more decades of military dictatorship have done little for the country the chances are that this will do little also. I guess we'll have to wait and watch what the next flavour-of-the-month is.
     
     Bob Raybarman
     USA
     
     
     
143. We have tested all types of governments. The civilian as well as the military leadership of the past is responsible for the backwardness of Pakistan and the Pakistani society. Everyone is aware that from the inception of Pakistan the real power to rule remained with the armed forces and they are equally responsible for the chaotic situation of today. The armed forces are also equal partner in plundering the national wealth of Pakistan in the name of defence of Pakistan while always siding with all dictators who tried to silenced the voices of the people. Why they did not act when Honorable Sajjad Ali Shah was dishonoured and now it has been disclosed by orders of Lt. General Tariq Parvaiz, Corps Commander of Quetta? Why no action was taken when Najam Sethi and Hussain Haqqani were beaten and dragged? Till today they have acted only in their own interest. People are waiting and will see what happens this time.
     
     These are questions the nation is asking of Musharraf. This was the leadership of the armed forces who massacred our brethren in East Pakistan. They blocked the gates of true democracy and joined hands with Bhutto, a core dictator and hypocrite. General Zia and his party, harped on the tone of ideology of Pakistan and Islam, nurtured Sharif and Chaudhry brothers and Ghous Ali Shah. Formed militant ethnic and religious organisations directly under the control of agencies. If Musharraf and his party are honest, they should immediately publish the Hamoodur Rehman Commision's report. If not, then their speeches are only rhetoric, worthless and an act of the armed forces to replace a plundering regime with another similar regime and time will tell.
     
     To clear this mess we need true federal and democratic system. A strong directly elected Senate with full powers not a National Security Council where three egoistic and obstinate "Chiefs" are sitting and reminding the government the barrel of gun if their mostly stupid opinion is not adhered to. The devolution of power to the gross roots is all the more necessary otherwise no power on earth can save us from total destruction in future.
     
     Syed Ahmad
     USA
     
     
     
144. I hope that this CE will give us a new way towards a bright future of Pakistan. They should also think about the city government, which is playing an important role in the progress of developed countries. Another important aspect is that they should make a plan to divide our only four provinces, on the basis of divisions. In other words they should upgrade divisions to provinces. It will help in dealing with racial differences. People will think only about their area not for the whole racial province. It will allow leaders to solve and reach their people easily. There should be an exam like GMAT or whatever for the candidates of next election; this exam should be taken under army supervision. It will allow educated people to serve the nation. If anyone reading these three points brings these points to the knowledge of the CHEIF Executive, I will be thankful.
     
     Fahad Khan
     USA
     
     
     
145. It's a more challenging situation for him. If he is able to collect all the money from the robbers of this country, is able to hang all the defaulters of this country, is able to give jobs to all jobless people of this country, then all the problems will be solved. But God forbids, he fails, then I'm afraid we will lose the last hope and chance to save this country. May Allah be with us always.
     
     Ali Syed
     Pakistan
     
     
     
146. I am with General Musharraf. I don't know if he is good or bad but I do know that both Nawaz and Bibi are bad for the country. I also feel that democratic institutions are not suited to the present atmosphere. We need to first build up various state institutions and then slowly introduce democracy to the people like China or Taiwan.
     
     Gill
     Pakistan
     
     
     
147. I agree with the step of the Army. And I hope that this new government is able to solve the problems of the people of Pakistan. However I have seen tremendous development works in Pakistan during the regime of the ex-government. These development works should continue at least for the ongoing projects. Economic and educational reforms should be the key issue of this government. For Pakistan, democracy is not a suitable system because about 60% population is illiterate. The illiterate voters will bring such government as will be more interested in its own welfare instead of that of the masses. First improve your literacy level then go for true democracy in Pakistan.
     
     Muhammad Umar Farooq
     Pakistan
     
     
     
148. A democratic govt. must be restored and the generals and others who are responsible for the present upset must be tried as per the constitution of Pakistan, so that in the future no general takes a foolish step like this. Democracy is the best way for our loved country.
     
     Muhammad Yousaf
     Canada
     
     
     
149. For democracy to work it’s essential that people are free to express their will. With Jageer-Dari system our majority is not free, so for any system to work Jageer-Dari system must end. A good step in this direction could be real agricultural reforms. Second important thing that must be in place for any future democracy to work is police reforms. Police should be made accountable to people.
     
     Mufti Muhammad Ahmed
     Canada
     
     
     
150. I see the name of Mr. Jatoi in the THINK-TANK team. From 1992 to 1994 according to Pakistani newspapers, the man had taken more than Twenty Six Crores in loans for his support to Nawaz-Benazir governments. So in my view he should go through accountability first, then become part of the THINK TANK.
     
     Mohammad Arshad
     Pakistan
     
     
     
151. Only democracy is the best solution in any country in the present and future era. Democracy is a tool by virtue of which any undisciplined government can be removed. Military rule is a curse for the people of that nation which comes under such circumstances. In both the rules none can deny the supremacy of the public to be governed later or sooner. It is always better for the dictators to hand over the reigns of rule to the people of the country without wasting a minute of time, thus doing so they shall enhance their prestige. Let people punish the guilty government displaced by the power of their vote. Your country’s military ruler's intentions seem to be correct, but the way selected by him is incorrect.
     
     K.Lal
     India
     
     
     
152. I have a four-point agenda for the development of the country:
     1. Development of the agriculture and industry sectors: by this we can develop the economy of the country.
     2. Betterment of the education system: (our education level is very low) a ban on politicians using the education institute, way of teaching, transport facility, union, clubs, research facility.
     3. Strict action to reduce the corruption at all levels.
     4. Strict accountability from top to bottom, especially for politicians, bureaucrats, army and judges.
     
     Zaidi
     Japan
     
     
     
153. The army should set an example for future politicians by punishing these corrupt politicians.
     They should be restricted from entering politics forever.
     
     Farha Khan
     Canada
     
     
     
154. Don't repeat faces, be impartial and fair while selecting the team. This is very important to save the system, institutions and the country as a whole. We only need sincerity and dedication. We all pray for the Chief Executive that he be the same as he said and prayed in his speech.
     
     Iqbal Abid
     Pakistan
     
     
     
155. Need to get rid of corrupt people. The police should be sorted, as they get bribed by the people, and most of the time they are the ones involved in crimes. More investment in education so that people know the difference between right and wrong. Jobs should be given on merit as these people are frustrated by the rich community that gets all the benefits without doing any work.
     
     Naheeda Afzal
     UK
     
     
     
156. A few points were missing in the agenda, and they are: elimination of the feudal system and limiting landownership to a max of 500 acres. Overhauling of the educational system and combining the secular and Islamic educational requirements.
     
     Saleem Khan
     USA
     
     
     
157. The seven-point agenda of General Pervez Musharraf is perfect for perfect democracy
     but for permanent relief to the people, the police department must be purged of corruption.
     The General must give priority to this important issue.
     
     Abdus Sattar Ghori
     Canada
     
     
     
158. The General's seven-point agenda is not much different from the PPP's or PML's. The majority of Pakistanis, in terms of their mentality, are not suitable for any kind of democracy. In fact, there is not a Muslim country in the world that has true democracy. PPP and PML are proven crooks. The General's intentions too are not clear. We may see him later becoming like General Zia, and doing to PML what General Zia did to PPP.
     
     Nazeer Baig
     USA
     
     
     
159. The seven-point agenda will insha-allah allow the country to be governed by a true democratic reform, and not allow future governments to ABUSE the country and its people. Nawaz and Bhutto governments let the country down by filling their own pockets and leaving the working class Pakistani with nothing but bitterness. I do hope that the General should at least try both governments for negligence, fraud and deception.
     
     Naveed S. Qureshi
     UK
     
     
     
160. Yes. He will give Pakistan a real, workable democracy and will prove to be the Ata Turk of Pakistan. May God bless him to save Pakistan from a brainless, corrupt, and characterless PM, who was acting like a King. Pakistan can only progress, if it follows the following principles:
     1. Good governance
     2. Ruthless accountability
     3. Religion and State affairs not to be mixed.
     5. Maulvis kept at a distance.
     6. Project and market Pakistan positively as a liberal country, so that international investors can come for investment.
     7. Resolve the Kashmir issue for once and develop good relations with neighbouring countries, especially with a big country like India.
     8. Reduce unnecessary expenses and defence expenses substantially.
     9. Take care of minorities.
     10.Teach the corrupt a lesson that their grandchildren would also remember.
     Support General Pervez Musharraf wholeheartedly. God bless him and Pakistan.
     
     Riaz Khan
     Texas
     
     
     
161. After 12 years of "DEMOCRACY" it seems like the nation or at least the sensible citizens have come to the conclusion that we need a group of sincere and credible individuals who will actually do something for the country. The politicians have done every possible thing harmful to country, now this time lets not make that mistake and try to find some sincere people. And there are 2 people that I would be really happy to see in the National Govt: Moin Qureeshi and the former Chief Justice Sajjad Shah. You all might be surprised to know the fact the Pakistan has the highest number of executives in the World Bank than any other country, and I am hoping that General Musharraf will consider bringing in some financial experts to help stabilise the economy.
     
     Ahsan Mirza
     USA
     
     
     
162. I am sure the new agenda introduced by the Chief Executive is enough to bring Pakistan towards the fulfilment of the dreams of its founders, but the promisor should comply with them honestly.
     
     Sultan
     USA/Pakistani
     
     
     
163. I don't think the seven-point agenda is very effective. People are tired of points without any action! We have had lots of "nukaats" with no practical implementation, whatsoever! The COAS should avoid giving "points" like politicians. BUT I do agree with his idea of "think-tank". Provided that the think-tank is not full of no-good-pro-army individuals! The "think-tank" should have non-controversial professionals (not bureaucrats) like engineers, doctors, clean businessmen, successful Pakistani citizens abroad, rational educated religious ulema etc.. The army cannot rule a country…they are trained into an autocratic style of management. Civilian departments become useless if autocratic management techniques are applied on them!
     
     Junaid Saleem Khan
     USA
     
     
     
164. 100% it will.
     
     Junaid Abbas
     USA
     
     
     

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