The (Ex) Washington Realist

Some initial thoughts on the death of Benazir Bhutto. One correspondent wrote to me that there is another issue to consider--the future of the PPP and its connection to the Bhutto family. Can the party transform itself beyond the Bhuttos, will it have the cohesiveness to remain a major political force upholding and promoting its vision for Pakistan? An interesting question, again considering the South Asian political pattern of powerful families being intertwined with specific political movements.

UPDATE: A possible Saudi role for a Pakistani political transition? Helping to mediate a transitional unity government? A focus on returning to the Waziristan cease-fire model--no interference with Islamists at "home" if they cease their links with groups operating outside of Pakistan?