Islamabad: President General Pervez Musharraf said goodbye to the army he commanded for nine years, handing over the coveted post of chief of army staff on Wednesday to his nominated successor General Ashfaq Pervez Kiyani.
The 64-year old general is due to take up his new role today as a civilian president for five years.
"Today I am handing over command of the army to a man whom I have known for more than 20 years. I am confident that the army will outshine better than before under his command," Musharraf said in an emotional speech.
Musharraf described the shedding of his uniform as a "good first step", but the US said it expects Pakistan to end the emergency for the conducting of free and fair general elections so that the country can return to the path of democracy.
Reacting to the move, Pakistan opposition leader Benazir Bhutto said: "It is a pleasant moment in the history of Pakistan. Now our army will get a full-time general as its leader."
Your comments
He had no other choice. He was losing American support. This is his new tactic to remain in power. I hope the best for Pakistan.
Mohammad
Karachi,Pakistan
Posted: November 29, 2007, 13:04
President Musharraf has fulfilled his commitment and done his job wonderfully. He will be remembered as a great patriot because of his sincerity and loyalty to his country.
Aamir
Sharjah,UAE
Posted: November 29, 2007, 12:59
The photograph that appeared with the story is a classic. It clearly shows Musharraf?s helpless anger and disappointment at letting go of something he values so much.
Roshan
Ras Al Khaimah,UAE
Posted: November 29, 2007, 12:28
Welcome move! President Musharraf will prove to be an effective civilian president just as he had in the position of the Chief of Army Staff.
Syed
Dubai,UAE
Posted: November 29, 2007, 09:55
I admire President Musharraf and salute him for his services. He is a man of his word. It was a moment of despair when he had to say goodbye to the army. He had done a marvellous job of establishing the image of Pakistan and bringing stability in the country. Even then, most of our people ignore that and find it difficult to praise him.
Mahwish
Sharjah,UAE
Posted: November 29, 2007, 09:27
Musharraf is a great leader; he ran the affairs of Pakistan with honesty and to the best of his ability. We will certainly miss the General now that he has left the army. But at the same time we are happy that he will continue to serve Pakistan as the President. Long live President Musharraf!
Adnan
Toronto,Canada
Posted: November 29, 2007, 08:07
The situation in Pakistan is getting better as processions and demonstrations against the government have come to a standstill. Now it is up to the public to vote and elect the new prime minister, who can make a difference and fill the gaps which Musharraf could not.
Bilal
Lahore,Pakistan
Posted: November 29, 2007, 07:51
