Forget arrest, Bhutto vows to fight polls

Exiled former prime minister Benazir Bhutto has pledged to return to Pakistani politics, a report said today as military ruler Pervez Mushar...

Exiled former prime minister Benazir Bhutto has pledged to return to Pakistani politics, a report said today as military ruler Pervez Musharraf held a referendum to extend his presidency.

Bhutto, twice prime minister in the 1990s, told The News that she would contest elections scheduled for October even if she was arrested and thrown into prison.

The Pakistan People’S party (PPP) leader has divided her time between London and Dubai since fleeing into exile shortly before her conviction for corruption in 1998.

But despite relentless attacks from Musharraf, she remains a potentially powerful force with a strong and loyal following. ‘‘The People’s Party is a reality. General Musharraf has to deal with it,’’ she told The News. Musharraf says Bhutto has forfeited her right to participate in Pakistani politics and will be arrested on outstanding corruption charges if she returns. ‘‘If people boycott the referendum, it means that he (Musharraf) has lost,” Bhutto was quoted as saying.

People look at a burnt police vehicle during protests against social media ban and corruption in Kathmandu, Nepal

Shelter in homes, avoid going out: MEA issues travel advisory for Indian citizens in Nepal

India1 hr ago

The Ministry of External Affairs has advised Indian citizens to postpone travel to Nepal until the situation stabilizes. Those already in Nepal are urged to stay in their residences, follow local safety advisories, and seek guidance from the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu. Emergency helpline numbers have also been provided.

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