Daily Times

Sir: It is clear that Al Qaeda, the Taliban and other Islamist extremist groups are the beneficiaries of Benazir Bhutto’s murder. These extremist groups have been carrying out regular suicide bombings even before Bhutto’s return. Their purpose has always been to create havoc leading to the collapse of order and stability thus allowing them to move closer to imposing their version of a perfectly Islamic state. Western-educated Benazir Bhutto represented everything they hated — an educated woman trying to lead a Muslim nation.

In Pakistan, the Taliban, the Al Qaeda and other extremist groups are likely to continue their systematic mass murders in their attempts to Talibanise Pakistan. Although Benazir Bhutto, being a liberated and educated Muslim woman, was considered their worst enemy, even a liberal-minded male leader may not escape their hostility. Pakistan is now caught in a wave of religious violence with no end in sight. Islamist fanaticism remains Pakistan’s worst enemy and the fanatics enjoy considerable popular support due to ignorance and propaganda. This explains why public anger is not directed against Al Qaeda/Taliban and President Musharraf is getting all the blame. As such, Musharraf must be asked to step aside handing over power to a non-partisan caretaker government. Otherwise, Pakistan might degenerate into a veritable Terroristan.
MAHMOOD ELAHI
Canada