Asked how he rated Musharraf as President vis-à-vis Pakistani Christians, the Bishop said, “He did a few things which benefited Pakistani Christians.”

He hailed Musharraf for introducing Joint Electorate System for Pakistani minorities.

Asked if he backed constitutional amendment in article 41 of the constitution of Pakistan, so that every Pakistani could run for presidential elections, the Bishop said there was no reason why he would not back such a proposal.

“Every Pakistani irrespective of his faith should be entitled to run in the Presidential elections. This issue is not religious, but that of equality for all,” he said.

In reply to a question, he said that next 30 days would see “tough negotiations between coalition partners.” The Bishop stated that it would not be easy for them to forge consensus on a Presidential candidate.

“The political parties’ leadership has become mature over the years. I hope they can agree on a consensus candidate,” said Bishop Samuel.

Asked how Musharraf’s resignation would affect Islamic militancy, he said that Musharraf’s departure would make “no difference to Islamic fundamentalism.”

When asked if he was in favor of a repeal of article 58-2 (b) that empowers Pakistani president to dissolve assemblies, the Bishop said that the article was meant to put check and balance in place, but the article had been “frequently abused and misused” by some of Musharraf’s predecessors.

A renowned Christian professor, Anjum James Paul, who also happens to be chairman of Pakistan Minorities Teachers’ Association while talking to ANS said he and his like-minded friends had agitated when Pervez Musharraf had taken over in a bloodless military coup on October 12, 1999. He said they had protested since Musharraf had violated constitution of Pakistan by seizing power and his action was undemocratic and unconstitutional.

He appreciated Musharraf for giving Pakistani minorities the Joint Electorate System. Reciprocating a question, Anjum Paul said he would like next President to come from the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP).

“It is in the spirit of democracy that the next President comes from the PPP,” he said.

Professor Anjum also called for repeal of article 58 2 (b) of the constitution of Pakistan.

Copyright 2008 ASSIST News Service. Used by permission.