Americans wrong on corrupt Benazir

First, let me say that I am an American who has done much research on the history of Pakistan.

I am also married to a Pakistani, who is able to provide me with an insider's account of historical events, current events, and consensus of the people.

Most recently, we Americans have been bombarded with articles uplifting Benazir Bhutto's name as if she were a saint and the only savior for Pakistan. Some have gone as far as to say that Benazir's death was a great loss to the world.

These illusionists never mention one good thing that Benazir did for Pakistan during her two terms as prime minister.

Why? Because neither she nor any member of her family did anything good for Pakistan.

Benazir's father was rightly executed for his crimes. Benazir and her husband were exiled.

Benazir Bhutto came into power by plotting the murder of President Zia Ul-Haq, who had assisted the United States in defeating the Soviets in Afghanistan.

Ul-Haq had established an education program called "New Roshni," (new light) and it was geared toward educating the Pakistani people to increase the country's literacy level.

This program was to help educate the poor and help them not to solely rely on the teachings of extreme religious leaders. Benazir Bhutto terminated this educational program.

While she was prime minister even her mother and and brother, Murtaza, were against her. Benazir's husband, Asif Zardari was the equivalent of a mafia don and was even accused of playing a role in the murder of Murtaza. Z

Zardari was known as Mr. 10 Percent because he required 10 percent kickbacks on all contracts approved by him.

Many of Benazir's supporters quit her organization because of the corruption and nepotism. She was removed from office both times due to extreme corruption.

Benazir never did one thing to improve education and economics or promote peace and justice.

Extreme violence was at its all-time high, economic conditions and educational opportunities were at their all-time low while she reigned as prime minister.

A factual, historical account of Pakistan can be found in the book "Pakistan at the Crosscurrent of History" by Lawrence Ziring.

The only legacy left by Benazir Bhutto is that she robbed Pakistan and its people to create her own personal wealth and status. Read the 1998 investigative report by the New York Times.

Many Americans cannot possibly understand this, but Pakistan, historically, has been safer and more prosperous and provided better education when under the leadership of its military.

And, although I believe President Musharraf has done the best he can to lead his country in the right direction, Pakistan could benefit from the leadership of Imran Khan who could further advance Pakistan to a more progressive level.

T. Shabbir

Geneva