The miserable plight of the Bugti and Marri tribesmen, who were forced to flee their homes following the army operation against the insurgents in Balochistan, has failed to draw the attention of both the government and humanitarian organisations.

In early 2008 it seemed that a uniting government bringing the two major political parties together would last. The disintegration of this grand coalition was a mirror of the differences that threatened to split the country. Civil-military relations worsened and the growing militancy poses the greatest threat to the survival of the country. And yet, through it all, Pakistan still stands, divided, but not torn apart.

If Musharraf is, indeed, a modern, progressive and liberal leader, let him stand up to the mullahs.

One-time political foes, Benazir Bhutto and Nawaz, meet in London after a gap of nearly seven years. The topic of discussion: the ouster of their common enemy.

Despite a pat on the back from President George Bush on his support for the so-called US war on terror, Musharraf was visibly uncomfortable at the press conference held after his talks with the US leader.

If any members of the press corps, attending President Musharraf’s October 31 Iftar-cum-press conference in Islamabad expected the host to announce a cut in the defence budget or the termination of the F-16 deal to cover the colossal losses of the earthquake, they were being presumptuous.

The Supreme Court orders the release of Asif Zardari on bail after an eight-year prison term.

The suspense over Musharraf’s uniform issue is finally over with the appointment of General Ahsan Hayat as the new Vice-Chief of Army Staff.

It is not the enemy without, but the enemy within that is pounding on Pakistan’s door.

Prime Minister Jamali stands stubbornly defiant as the sword of Damocles lowers over his head.