Pakistani President Expands His Powers

ISLAMABAD, Pakistan — Despite widespread criticism, President Pervez Musharraf unilaterally amended the Pakistani Constitution on Wednesday, granting himself sweeping powers--including the right to dissolve parliament--and extending his term in office.

“Pakistan is passing through a very crucial transitional period,” Musharraf told reporters in announcing his decision to impose the amendments, which were unveiled in June. “We are taking Pakistan from democratic dictatorship to elected democracy. I want to introduce a sustainable democratic order.”

Critics, however, argued that the 29 amendments were a blow to the very democracy that Musharraf promised to restore by holding elections Oct. 10 for parliament and provincial legislatures.

“We don’t believe that an individual or group has the right to amend the constitution,” said Raza Rabbai of the opposition Pakistan People’s Party, led by former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto. “This is the sole prerogative of the parliament.”

Musharraf said he would remain president and army chief for the next five years and as president he would have the right to name the heads of the three military branches and the chairman of the joint chiefs of staff.

The moves should help Musharraf wield power even after October’s elections.