I think Pakistanis have some good options in the coming elections as compared to the ones they had in the past. I think the PTI, APML & MQM are good, nationalistic parties. While I believe the PTI under the leadership of Imran Khan has a lot of potential, I am not sure of the party itself, if it has able workers, if they reject extremism. In other words, Imran Khan (& hence the PTI) don't have any kind of proven record. The APML under Musharraf should be a good party, as Musharraf has a proven record of tackling extremism. But I do not know if his party is mature enough, although I would trust the APML more than the PTI. I think the MQM has gone past its days of thuggery, & appear to be the most refined party of middle class Pakistani moderates focused on development & fighting extremism. I do not know if they have overwhelming support either, but I would trust them as well for their unflinching record in Karachi in recent times. I hope Imran Khan can take a better stance against extremists, that is the only thing that is keeping me from supporting him. While I do not support the drone attacks on innocent civilians, Imran Khan should take a more hard hitting approach against terrorist networks as well.
All in all, many good & wide ranging options for the Pakistani people. I would personally think Musharraf is the most reliable candidate out there, although I would need to know more about his party. I hope these 3 parties contesting support each other once the elections are over, work towards the betterment of Pakistan & take a nationalistic approach, rather than taking actions to increase their vote bank. The MQM has been sincere in its development of Karachi, & I could see them as working to tackle extremism & developing Pakistan even if they lost the 2013 elections. Interesting times ahead!
