Tainted elections in Pakistan could strengthen the hand of militants, a US group that promotes democracy said on Thursday. The independent National Democratic Institute, referring to Pakistan's president and army chief Pervez Musharraf, also said holding the positions of president and army chief at the same time was not acceptable in a democracy.
"If the elections are tainted, they could lead to the strengthening of extremist elements, which can fill the void left by the marginalisation of the more moderate parties," said David Collenette, a former Canadian minister.
"If the upcoming elections meet international standards and have the confidence of the people of Pakistan they can provide the basis for returning power to civilian hands," Collenette, who part of an NDI delegation, told a news conference.
Opposition groups have denounced that plan as unconstitutional. The US democracy group said Musharraf should refer the issue to courts. Constitutionally, Musharraf is supposed to step down as army chief by the end of 2007. While he has not yet made clear whether he will abide by that commitment, many people believe he is reluctant to give up his uniform as to do so would undermine his authority. "We have made our position clear that holding the posts of the president and the chief of the army in a democratic society is not acceptable," said Collenette.
"We are advocating that the president address this at the earliest." The NDI receives funds from the US and several other governments. It works with democratic groups and supports elections around the world.
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