Last week Former Pakistan Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto addressed her power-sharing deal with General Pervez Musharraf at her press confrerence. “Many have criticized the deal but it is being done to avoid bloodshed and ensure an orderly transfer of power to the people,” she said.

In an interview with ABC Radio Australia, New America Foundation Fellow Rajan Menon discussed Bhutto’s political situation upon her return to Pakistan after eight years in exile.

Has Bhutto been damaged politically by the amnesty deal struck with General Musharraf?

“Yes… There’s no question that within her own party there was great unease about deal cutting with Musharraf. Not only was there the feeling she might taint herself while doing it, but in effect Musharraf was reeling in on the ropes... she rang the bell ending the round. Needlessly she allowed him a second shot as it were,” said Menon.

For the complete interview with Menon and more on the situation in Pakistan, please follow this link.