Won't derail democracy in Pakistan, Kayani assures Zardari

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Pakistan’s powerful army chief on Friday assured President Asif Ali Zardari that democracy will not be derailed and the elected government will be allowed to make important decisions regarding foreign policies.

“Gen. Kayani assured the President that the army will stick to its professional duties and will not engage in politics. He expressed his commitment to the elected government,” a senior government official, privy to the meeting, told this newspaper.

He said Gen. Kayani and President Zardari met informally over tea at the presidency after the Nishan-e-Imtiaz ceremony for Naval chief Admiral Asif Sandila.

“The army chief made it clear that army wants democracy to flourish and will continue to support the government,” the official added.

“Gen. Kayani and the President also discussed the recommendations of the parliamentary committee in regards to the Nato attack. Matters relating to the country’s economic conditions were also discussed during the informal meeting,” another official said.

The President, he said, told the army chief that the memogate conspiracy would be exposed and the culprits will be dealt with under the law.

“Both leaders agreed that cooperation was required in dealing with numerous challenges in the country.”