Pakistan: Zardari Gives Up Nuclear Control

The Los Angeles Times reports that Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari has abdicated control of the country’s nuclear program, along with other powers, to the directly elected prime minister. The announcement came on the same day his amnesty from corruption charges expired, opening him up to criminal investigations. While Zardari claims the move is part of a greater plan to transfer greater powers to directly elected officials, the article suggests the unpopular Zardari is simply “fighting for his political life.” In agreement, Juan Cole interprets the move as “the maneuvering of a wounded, corrupt presidency.” Additionally, Cole cites fears that a further destabilization of Pakistani politics might lead to a greater military role once again.