Nawaz Sharif: A return to extremism and instability

[southasiawatch]

At the end of the 1990's, under the leadership of Sharif, the economy of Pakistan suffered immensely. Due to nuclear proliferation, Pakistan suffered from crippling economic sanctions. The poverty rate hovered near 35%, and real growth in GDP was lackluster, ranging from 1.8% to 4%. Sadly, enormous resources were diverted to rapid development of nuclear weapons technology, a technology that ended up undermining Pakistan's security by fueling an increased arms race with India.

Sharif has engaged in reckless and violent confrontation with its neighbors, especially India and Afghanistan. With India, the continuing flashpoint of Kashmir erupted in conflict during the "Kargil War" where Indian and Pakistani forces were in direct conflict. Sharif's belligerence risked open, general warfare with India, risking tens of millions of his fellow citizens with his brinksmanship. Both countries, armed with nuclear weapons, stood on the precipice of a disaster unparalleled in the history of both nations. In regards to Afghanistan, Sharif's support of the Taliban within Afghanistan, and allowing them to draw operate and draw support from area's within Pakistan itself, thus adding their destabilizing influence to an already fragile political environment.

Sharif's lust of power, and his willingness to damage Pakistan's future, area toxic mix for the people of Pakistan, and for it's neighbors.