Richardson to Musharraf: Step Down!

Denison, Iowa---Democratic presidential hopeful and New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson released a statement reacting to the assassination of Pakistani former prime minister and opposition leader, Benazir Bhutto, saying "We mourn for Ms. Bhutto. She knew the dangers to her safety. Her death, and the deaths of so many of her supporters is more than just a tragedy. It is a testament to the will of the Pakistani people to see democracy restored. My thoughts and prayers are with the families of those who died today."

Richardson stated, "It is in the interests of the US that there be a democratic Pakistan that relentlessly hunts down terrorists. Musharraf has failed,and his attempts to cling to power are destabilizing his country. He must go."

The former US Ambassador to the UN also pressed President Bush to diplomatically encourage Musharraf to step aside and to bring a broad-based coalition government consisting of all the democratic parties. Until free and fair elections occur, Richardson says, the US should suspend all
military aid to Pakistan.

Senator Joe Biden, also a Democratic presidential hopeful, will be holding a press conference in Des Moines at 12:00 CST.

Comments

[Marichu]

Of all the presidential candidates, Biden and Richardson have excellent credentials and experiences in international affairs. They have the crucial diplomatic skills needed when dealing with foreign governments and heads of states.

[Tellmethetruth]

Biden's comments on Huffington Post on November 6 & 8th. (The Pakistan Press endorsed Biden for President after these statements were made public as the candidate who knew the most about Pakistan and the only candidate who cared about Pakistan). (Richardson has also blogged on Pakistan).

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/joe-biden/a-new-approach-to-pakista_b_71733.html

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/joe-biden/we-need-a-pakistan-policy_b_71399.html

[booker52]

I agree with Richarson stand on this. He and Biden would both the best leaders for our country.

[cblcar]

Biden and Richardson are the best qualified to handle these problems. I hope the nation will wake up and realize how much we need these men as our leaders at this very dangerous time. Biden/Richardson '08

[Cautious]

I like the firm stand Gov. Richardson is taking on this. It's really hard not to be cynical about the Musharraf government's role in this and their possible complicity.