The violence intensified after contradictory claims about how Ms. Bhutto died along with the blame on who is responsible for her death. Musharraf’s government has pointed fingers at Islamic militants. However, they said that they had nothing to do with her assassination and accuse them of launching government propaganda. Bhutto’s aides accuse the government of a cover up.
Over the last three days, over forty people have been killed. The elections are under the threat of derailment. January 8 elections were the key from transitioning from a military government to a more democratic government. Bhutto’s investigation had called forth towards an independent international investigation.
Pakistan had dismissed the ideas. But according to U.S. officials, Pakistan was quietly in talks with other countries on the conduct of the probe. It suggests that Pakistan wants to make sure the findings are seen as credible.
Javed Ipbal Cheema, the spokesman for Pakistan’s interior ministry defended the government’s ability to carry out the probe.
“This is not an ordinary criminal matter in which we require assistance of the international community. I think we are capable of handling it,” Cheema said.
The party of rival opposition leader Nawaz Sharif said it has already boycotted the elections. The Pakistan People’s Party that was led by Ms. Bhutto have called forth a meeting on choosing a successor and to see whether to participate in the elections or not.
The credibility of the polls will be destroyed if the PPP pulls out.
US Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton said that an international probe is necessary. She said there is no reason to trust the Pakistani government. At the same time, others have called upon the United Nations to investigate.
“It’s a responsibility of the government of Pakistan to ensure that the investigation is thorough. If Pakistani authorities ask for assistance we would review the request,” said White House spokesman, Tony Fatto.
“Obviously it’s very important that a full investigation does take place, and has the confidence of all concerned,” said David Miliband, British Foreign Secretary who had offered help from Britain.
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