Floods undermine popularity of Pakistani government. by Milota Sidorova

In the time of catastrophes, it's kind of unwritten rule that the highest representatives of such country should stay with their own people, going as an example of help and support.These days when even Vladimir Putin tries to improve his popularity creating his media image of protector and active citizen who is helping to fight wildfires near Moscow. Maybe it's not really helpinh, but at least it shows some level of interest.Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari, a widower after murdered Benazir Bhutto however didn't followed that rule. At the time the country suffered the worst floods affecting up to 13 million people (or 8 percent of nation), he was outside on his foreign ! mission.Back home he got sharp wave of criticism. Although his power has been reduced to ceremonial representative of the country, his moral duty was to be back home. After floods, he eventually returned.The country now counts up to two million homeless and 1.600 victims of water catastrophe. The weather got better last days and allowed helicopters of domestic and international humanitarian aid to operate in the area. But it will need billions and enormous efforts to get the area back into the shape.Pakistani situation is however significant also from another point of view. Its army that is the most powerfull organization in the country and promised to stay away off politics is still loosing the ability to take control over floods. Yet, it consumes great budget and power. There are tensions also in Washinghton, since Pakistan is U.S. ally fighting back Taliban – but worseing situation in Pakistan may also undermine stability of current government and the President who! se party is ruling the country.The last decline came out of ma! rkets wh ere the country's shares lost 1.34 percent to 9,892.32 points due investors' worries about the costs and capital. This may eventually lead into lowering country rating index and troubles on economic field.

related story (sgx17947): http://www.france24.com/en/20100810-zardari-returns-home-fac...

by Milota Sidorova for Cantell TV (http://cantell.tv)

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