Asif Ali Zardari: Pakistan's 14th President | Political Legacy | BNN Documentary

Asif Ali Zardari, the 14th President of Pakistan since March 10, 2024, has had a dynamic political career marked by triumphs, controversies, and significant milestones. Born on July 26, 1955, into a prominent landowning family in Sindh, Pakistan, Zardari's journey into politics accelerated after his marriage to Benazir Bhutto in 1987. Benazir Bhutto's ascension to the role of Prime Minister in 1988 brought Zardari into the spotlight, and his tenure as the first husband garnered both admiration a

nd criticism. Throughout the 1990s, Zardari faced accusations of corruption and nepotism, particularly during Bhutto's tenures as Prime Minister, which led to widespread criticism and the collapse of her government in 1990. Despite his involvement in various controversies, including alleged involvement in corruption scandals and the death of Bhutto's brother, Murtaza Bhutto, Zardari maintained a political presence, serving as a member of the National Assembly and later the Senate, albeit amidst

legal battles and periods of incarceration. Zardari's return to Pakistan after Bhutto's assassination in 2007 marked a significant turning point in his political career. As the co-chairman of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), he led the party to victory in the 2008 general elections. His leadership played a pivotal role in forcing the resignation of military ruler Pervez Musharraf and subsequently securing his own election as President of Pakistan in September 2008. During his presidency, Zardar

i navigated complex domestic and international challenges, including his role as a key American ally in the war in Afghanistan. Domestically, his tenure saw the passage of the Eighteenth Amendment in 2010, which curtailed presidential powers, and efforts to address terrorism and natural disasters, such as the devastating floods of 2010. However, his administration faced criticism for alleged mishandling of these crises and for failing to address rampant corruption and economic challenges effecti

vely. As his term drew to a close, Zardari's approval ratings plummeted, reflecting widespread disillusionment with his leadership. Despite criticism and controversy, he made history by becoming the first democratically elected president of Pakistan to complete his constitutional term in September 2013. Zardari's legacy remains divisive, with supporters highlighting his contributions to democracy and stability, while critics point to allegations of corruption and mismanagement. Nevertheless, his

return to the presidency in March 2024 through a coalition agreement underscores his enduring influence in Pakistani politics, ensuring that his story continues to shape the nation's political landscape. Asif Ali Zardari's early life and education shed light on the foundations that shaped his journey into Pakistani politics. Born on July 26, 1955, in Karachi, Sindh, Zardari hailed from a prominent Sindhi family with a rich legacy. His father, Hakim Ali Zardari, was a tribal chief and renowned l

andowner, while his mother, Bilquis Sultana Zardari, had familial ties to the esteemed Hassan Ali Effendi, recognized as the founder of the Sindh Madressatul Islam. Growing up in Karachi, Zardari enjoyed pursuits such as polo and boxing, reflecting a youthful vigor and passion for sports. He even led a polo team known as the Zardari Four, showcasing his leadership qualities from an early age. Additionally, his family's involvement in the entertainment industry, owning the famous Bambino cinema i

n Karachi, provided him with unique experiences and opportunities. Zardari's academic journey, however, remains somewhat enigmatic, shrouded in conflicting accounts and controversies. While his official biography claims that he graduated from Cadet College, Petaro in 1972, there are discrepancies regarding his educational attainment. Reports suggest that he attended Karachi Grammar School for primary education and St Patrick's High School in Karachi, where he purportedly faced challenges with hi

s final examination. The issue of Zardari's higher education became a contentious topic, particularly when he claimed to have obtained a bachelor of education degree from the London School of Business Studies in the early 1970s. However, the veracity of this claim remains disputed, with no conclusive evidence confirming his attendance at the institution. Similarly, assertions about his attendance at Pedinton School in Britain lack substantiation, raising further questions about his academic cred

entials. Despite these uncertainties, Zardari's educational background became a focal point of scrutiny, especially in light of a 2002 rule requiring parliamentary candidates to hold a college degree. However, the rule was overturned by Pakistan's Supreme Court in April 2008, alleviating concerns about Zardari's eligibility for political office. Overall, Zardari's early life and education offer glimpses into the complexities of his upbringing and the ambiguities surrounding his academic pursuits

. These formative experiences, coupled with his familial heritage and societal connections, laid the groundwork for his subsequent foray into the tumultuous realm of Pakistani politics. Asif Ali Zardari's early political endeavors were met with challenges and setbacks, reflecting the complexities of his journey into the realm of Pakistani politics. In 1983, he experienced defeat in an election for a district council seat in Nawabshah, Sindh, despite his family's significant landholdings in the r

egion. Following this setback, Zardari ventured into the real estate sector, seeking alternative avenues for professional engagement. However, Zardari's fortunes took a transformative turn with his marriage to Benazir Bhutto on December 18, 1987. The union between Zardari and Bhutto, arranged in accordance with Pakistani cultural norms, initially appeared as an unlikely match. The grandeur of their sunset wedding ceremony in Karachi, attended by over 100,000 people and followed by extravagant ni

ght celebrations, captured the public's imagination. For Bhutto, the marriage not only signaled a personal milestone but also bolstered her political stature in a society where unmarried women, particularly in leadership positions, faced scrutiny and skepticism. Despite his aspirations for a career in real estate, Zardari chose to defer to his wife's wishes and refrain from active involvement in politics. However, the political landscape shifted dramatically following the untimely demise of Gene

ral Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq in a plane explosion in 1988. In the ensuing political upheaval, Bhutto's Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) emerged victorious in the 1988 elections, propelling her to the historic position of Pakistan's first female Prime Minister. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of a new chapter in Zardari's political journey, as he found himself intricately entwined with Bhutto's political ambitions and the broader landscape of Pakistani governance. Asif Ali Zardari's involvement i

n the first Bhutto administration was marked by a complex interplay of political maneuvering, allegations of corruption, and subsequent legal battles. Despite initially maintaining a low profile within his wife's government, Zardari and his associates found themselves embroiled in corruption scandals that cast a shadow over the administration. As accusations mounted, Zardari became a central figure in controversies that ultimately led to the downfall of the Bhutto administration. Following the d

ismissal of Benazir Bhutto's government in August 1990, both Bhutto and Zardari faced restrictions on leaving the country, imposed by security forces under the direction of the Pakistan Army. During this period, caretaker Prime Minister Ghulam Mustafa Jatoi initiated investigations into allegations of corruption, particularly focusing on Zardari's purported role in soliciting commissions for facilitating various projects and obtaining loans, earning him the notorious moniker "Mr. Ten Percent." Z

ardari's troubles intensified when he was arrested on October 10, 1990, on charges related to kidnapping and extortion. The allegations involved a scheme wherein a bomb was purportedly strapped to a British businessman's leg to extort money. Despite protests from the Bhutto family, who deemed the indictment politically motivated, Zardari's legal ordeal persisted. Remarkably, he was elected to the National Assembly during his incarceration, underscoring the complexity of Pakistan's political land

scape. Although Zardari managed to secure bail, his release was obstructed by a government ordinance aimed at preventing suspects from being released by the courts. However, subsequent legal proceedings saw Zardari acquitted of bank fraud and conspiracy to murder political opponents. He was eventually freed in February 1993, after enduring years of legal battles and incarceration. The hijacking of Singapore Airlines Flight 117 on March 25, 1991, further underscored Zardari's tumultuous journey,

with hijackers demanding his release among other demands. The dramatic resolution of the hijacking by Singapore Commandos added another layer of intrigue to Zardari's narrative, encapsulating the turbulence of Pakistani politics during that era. Asif Ali Zardari's political involvement during the second Bhutto administration was characterized by a mix of official appointments, diplomatic missions, and tumultuous family dynamics. In April 1993, he assumed the role of one of the 18 cabinet ministe

rs in the caretaker government that followed Nawaz Sharif's first abbreviated premiership. Serving in various capacities, including as Investment Minister, chief of the intelligence bureau, and head of the Federal Investigation Agency, Zardari played a significant role in the governance structure of Pakistan during this period. Notably, Zardari embarked on a diplomatic mission in February 1994, when he was tasked by Benazir Bhutto to travel to Iraq and negotiate the release of three detained Pak

istanis in exchange for medicine. This mission underscored Zardari's involvement in sensitive diplomatic matters, highlighting his stature within the Bhutto administration. However, amidst these official responsibilities, the Bhutto family became embroiled in a bitter feud, primarily revolving around the political future of Murtaza Bhutto, Benazir's younger brother. The tensions within the family escalated in September 1996 when Murtaza and seven others were killed in a shootout with police in K

arachi. The circumstances surrounding Murtaza's death sparked accusations against Benazir and Zardari, with Nusrat Bhutto, Murtaza's mother, and Ghinwa Bhutto, his widow, alleging their involvement. President Farooq Leghari also voiced suspicions about Benazir and Zardari's role in Murtaza's demise. Amidst mounting pressure and allegations, Bhutto's government was dismissed by Leghari in November 1996, primarily citing corruption allegations and Murtaza's death as reasons. Zardari's situation fu

rther deteriorated when he was apprehended in Lahore while attempting to flee the country to Dubai. These events marked a turbulent period in Zardari's political career, characterized by familial strife, legal challenges, and accusations of wrongdoing, underscoring the complexities and controversies surrounding his tenure in Pakistani politics. Asif Ali Zardari's time in jail and subsequent exile were fraught with allegations of corruption and misuse of public funds, as detailed in a significant

report published by The New York Times in January 1998. The report exposed extensive corruption schemes orchestrated by Zardari, including kickbacks totaling $200 million in a failed $4 billion contract with French military contractor Dassault Aviation. It also revealed illicit payments of $5 million each from a gold bullion dealer in exchange for a monopoly on gold imports, shedding light on the Bhutto family's alleged accumulation of over $1.5 billion in illegal profits through kickbacks acro

ss various government sectors. Zardari's lavish spending habits during the mid-1990s, including extravagant expenditures on jewelry, further fueled the controversy surrounding his financial dealings. The intricate web of arrangements made by the Bhutto family to conceal their wealth involved Western property companies, lawyers, and a network of associates. The report highlighted Zardari's manipulation of contracts, dismissal of dissenting voices, and exploitation of government resources for pers

onal gain. The revelations in The New York Times report cast a damning light on Zardari's financial history and raised concerns about the integrity of banking procedures, particularly implicating Citibank, which faced scrutiny for its private banking practices. Zardari's financial exploits became a case study in a 1999 U.S. Senate report on vulnerabilities in banking procedures, further amplifying the global repercussions of his actions. These revelations marked a significant turning point in Za

rdari's political career, tarnishing his reputation and contributing to his subsequent incarceration and exile. The fallout from The New York Times report underscored the pervasive nature of corruption within Pakistani politics and the far-reaching consequences of such malfeasance on both domestic and international levels. Asif Ali Zardari's second imprisonment and subsequent conviction unfolded amidst a maelstrom of legal battles and international scrutiny. In March 1997, despite being incarcer

ated in a Karachi jail, Zardari was elected to the Senate, showcasing the enduring support he commanded within certain political circles. Later that year, in December, he was transported under heavy security to Islamabad to take his oath as a senator, a symbolic act of defiance against his legal predicament. The legal woes deepened for Zardari in July 1998 when he was indicted for corruption in Pakistan following the transfer of incriminating documents by the Swiss government regarding money lau

ndering allegations. Simultaneously, he faced charges in connection with the conspiracy to murder Murtaza Bhutto, Benazir Bhutto's brother. The commencement of criminal proceedings against him prompted Citibank to close his account, further exacerbating his financial isolation. In April 1999, Zardari and Benazir Bhutto were convicted of receiving kickbacks from a Swiss goods inspection company, resulting in a hefty fine of $8.6 million and a five-year prison sentence for each of them. While Bhut

to remained in self-imposed exile and could not be extradited, Zardari found himself incarcerated awaiting trial on separate charges. The evidence against them, gathered by Swiss investigators and the Pakistani Bureau of Accountability, dealt a severe blow to their legal defense. In a dramatic turn of events in May 1999, Zardari was hospitalized following an alleged attempted suicide, which he claimed was a murder attempt by the police. His health scare added a layer of intrigue to an already se

nsationalized case. Subsequently, in August 2003, a Swiss judge convicted the couple of money laundering, imposing a six-month prison sentence and a substantial fine, while also mandating the return of $11 million to the Pakistani government. Zardari's legal saga continued with sporadic releases and re-arrests, reflecting the fluctuating political dynamics in Pakistan. After being released on bail in November 2004, he faced another unexpected arrest for failing to appear at a hearing on a murder

case in Islamabad. This rollercoaster of legal battles culminated in Zardari's decision to seek refuge in exile in Dubai, marking the end of a tumultuous chapter in his political career amidst mounting legal and public scrutiny. Asif Ali Zardari's exile was marked by a tumultuous blend of legal battles, political maneuvering, and health setbacks. Despite occasional returns to Pakistan, his prolonged stays abroad were punctuated by legal entanglements and medical exigencies. In April 2005, his b

rief return to Lahore was met with police intervention, preventing him from holding rallies and underscoring the government's apprehensions about his political influence. Criticizing Pervez Musharraf's regime, he found himself shuttling between Dubai and Pakistan amid rumors of potential reconciliation. A health crisis struck in June 2005 when Zardari suffered a heart attack, necessitating medical attention in the United Arab Emirates and, reportedly, angioplasty in the United States. His absenc

e from a Rawalpindi court hearing in September 2005 due to health reasons prompted an arrest warrant, setting off a chain of legal ramifications that extended beyond Pakistan's borders. Interpol's issuance of a red notice in January 2006 escalated the legal pressure on Zardari and Benazir Bhutto, signaling a global pursuit for their extradition. The couple's separation during critical junctures underscored the complexity of their predicament. While Bhutto prepared for her return to Pakistan in S

eptember 2007, Zardari remained in New York City for medical treatment. The subsequent events, including Bhutto's assassination and Musharraf's declaration of emergency rule, further complicated Zardari's legal standing and political aspirations. His exile became a nexus of legal woes, including the contested National Reconciliation Ordinance in Pakistan and ongoing legal battles in Switzerland, Spain, and Britain. Navigating through multiple jurisdictions and legal systems, Zardari employed var

ious strategies to mitigate legal liabilities, including exploiting his medical condition to delay legal verdicts. His exile, characterized by shifts between New York, London, and Dubai, underscored the global dimensions of his legal and political predicament, all while maintaining connections with his children and navigating the intricate web of international legal proceedings. As the shocking aftermath of Benazir Bhutto's assassination unfolded, Asif Ali Zardari found himself thrust into the c

enter of a political maelstrom. In adherence to Islamic tradition, Zardari prevented Bhutto's autopsy and, alongside their children, mourned her at her funeral, vehemently refuting government claims of Al-Qaida involvement in her death. Instead, he called for an international inquiry, laying blame on Musharraf's administration for inadequate security measures. In a poignant twist of fate, Bhutto's political will designated Zardari as her successor, underscoring her unwavering trust in his leader

ship. However, mindful of potential party divisions and his own contentious public image, Zardari opted to pass the mantle to their nineteen-year-old son, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, who assumed the role of Chairman of the PPP. Zardari's decision to prioritize Bilawal's ascendancy aimed to safeguard Bhutto's political legacy while averting internal rifts within the party. Despite relinquishing the formal title of party leader to Bilawal, Zardari continued to play a pivotal role within the PPP, servi

ng as its co-chairman for a transitional period until Bilawal completed his overseas studies. This strategic move underscored Zardari's commitment to preserving Bhutto's vision and ensuring the party's cohesion during a tumultuous period of transition and uncertainty. Amidst the tumult following Benazir Bhutto's assassination, Asif Ali Zardari navigated the turbulent political landscape with tact and determination. In the lead-up to the parliamentary elections slated for 8 January, Zardari advoc

ated for their timely execution and rallied for the participation of all opposition factions, effectively quashing any prospects of a boycott. However, due to the prevailing unrest, the elections were rescheduled to 18 February, further intensifying the atmosphere of uncertainty. In a strategic move aimed at fostering stability, Zardari floated the idea of a potential coalition between his Pakistan People's Party (PPP) and Musharraf's Pakistan Muslim League-Q (PML-Q), signaling a willingness to

collaborate across party lines. Alongside Nawaz Sharif, leader of the Pakistan Muslim League (N) party (PML-N), Zardari issued stern warnings against any attempts at electoral manipulation, underscoring his commitment to fair and transparent democratic processes. Following the elections, which saw the PPP and PML-N emerge as the leading contenders, Zardari and Sharif forged a historic coalition, dashing American hopes of a power-sharing agreement with Musharraf. While both leaders agreed on the

restoration of the judiciary, Zardari's approach was notably more measured than Sharif's, reflecting a nuanced understanding of political dynamics. To bolster the coalition's strength, Zardari reached out to various political factions, including the Awami National Party and Baloch nationalist leaders, cementing a broad-based alliance. Amid speculation over his aspirations for the premiership, Zardari surprised many by opting to nominate Yousaf Raza Gillani as prime minister, a move perceived as

a strategic balancing act within the party ranks. This decision underscored Zardari's astute leadership style, characterized by pragmatism and a shrewd understanding of political exigencies, as Pakistan ventured into a new era fraught with challenges and opportunities. Amidst the intricate web of political negotiations and power dynamics, Asif Ali Zardari, alongside Nawaz Sharif, embarked on a journey to restore judicial integrity and parliamentary authority in Pakistan. The Murree Declaration o

f 9 March 2008 stands as a testament to their commitment, as they pledged to reinstate 60 judges ousted by Musharraf by 30 April 2008, later extended to 12 May. Despite earnest efforts, talks in London during May failed to yield the desired outcome, leading to the withdrawal of PML-N from the coalition in mid-May, citing the government's failure to restore the judiciary. Undeterred by setbacks, the coalition regrouped, this time with renewed vigor, proposing a constitutional amendment to curtail

the President's power to dissolve Parliament. As tensions with Musharraf escalated, the government scored a diplomatic victory by securing Pakistan's readmission to the Commonwealth. However, internal divisions threatened the coalition's cohesion, particularly regarding the scope of constitutional reforms and Musharraf's removal. In June 2008, Zardari and Sharif convened in Lahore to address mounting discontent and chart a path forward. While Zardari remained cautious about impeachment, citing

insufficient legislative support, Sharif pressed for decisive action against Musharraf. The coalition's inability to reconcile differences over Musharraf's fate and the judiciary's restoration exacerbated public frustration amidst economic turmoil marked by food shortages and soaring inflation. By August 2008, mounting pressure compelled Zardari to pivot towards impeachment, signaling a decisive shift in the coalition's strategy. Charging Musharraf with high treason for the 1999 coup and martial

law imposition, the coalition embarked on a relentless pursuit of accountability. Musharraf's resignation on 18 August marked a watershed moment in Pakistan's political landscape, albeit fraught with debates over immunity and the judiciary's future, underscoring the complexities inherent in Pakistan's democratic evolution. Amid the tumultuous aftermath of Musharraf's departure, Asif Ali Zardari's ascension to the presidency marked a pivotal moment in Pakistan's political trajectory. With presid

ential elections swiftly convened within three weeks, Zardari embarked on a campaign underscored by pledges to combat tribal militancy, despite facing public skepticism. Backed by the support of the United States, Zardari's bid for the presidency gained momentum, buoyed by endorsements from the PPP and the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM). The electoral arena saw a diverse array of contenders, with the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) nominating former justice Saeed-uz-Zaman Siddiqui, while th

e Pakistan Muslim League-Quaid (PML-Q) fielded Mushahid Hussain Sayed. However, Zardari emerged victorious, securing a commanding majority in the Electoral College with 481 out of 702 votes, consolidating his mandate as Pakistan's 14th president on 6 September 2008. Despite lingering questions regarding his academic credentials, Zardari's ascent to the presidency epitomized the complex interplay of power dynamics and political exigencies in Pakistan's democratic landscape. In the nascent days of

his presidency, Asif Ali Zardari navigated a landscape fraught with challenges and opportunities, seeking to carve a path of stability and progress for Pakistan. The inauguration ceremony on 9 September 2008, marked by the presence of Afghan President Hamid Karzai as a guest of honor, signaled a pivotal moment of enhanced collaboration between the two neighboring nations in tackling the entrenched tribal insurgency along their shared border. Despite the symbolic gestures of cooperation, Zardari

faced skepticism regarding his commitment to upholding constitutional provisions, particularly his pledge to relinquish the President's authority to dismiss Parliament. Doubts persisted about his economic acumen, exacerbated by allegations of inflationary subsidies inflating grain procurement prices and the controversial scrapping of the capital gains tax. Zardari's early presidential tenure was marred by the tragic specter of terrorism, as the Islamabad Marriott Hotel bombing cast a shadow ove

r his first parliamentary address. Undeterred, he embarked on his maiden overseas trip to the United Nations Headquarters in New York City, striving to navigate Pakistan's diplomatic relations on the global stage amidst the specter of internal strife and external pressures. During his visit to the United Nations General Assembly from 23 to 26 September 2008, Asif Ali Zardari engaged in a series of high-stakes diplomatic encounters with prominent world leaders, including discussions with U.S. Pre

sident George W. Bush and Chinese President Hu Jintao. However, his interactions with U.S. vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin stirred political controversy and garnered unwelcome attention, as his flirtatious behavior and tongue-in-cheek remarks sparked embarrassment. Despite the public condemnation of U.S. drone attacks in Pakistan during his address at the UN General Assembly, reports emerged suggesting a clandestine agreement between Zardari and American officials. Allegations surfaced t

hat a covert deal had been struck, facilitating the coordination of Predator strikes and the establishment of a jointly approved list of high-profile targets, casting doubt on the sincerity of his public stance. Amidst the diplomatic maneuvering, Zardari seized the opportunity to engage in discussions with Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, culminating in an agreement to recommence peace talks by the conclusion of 2008. As he navigated the complexities of international relations, Zardari's ac

tions and statements during his UN visit underscored the delicate balancing act required to navigate Pakistan's strategic interests on the global stage. During a tumultuous period of economic crisis from 14 to 17 October 2008, Asif Ali Zardari embarked on a critical diplomatic mission to China in a bid to negotiate foreign aid and stave off the looming specter of default on Pakistan's payments. However, despite his efforts, China refrained from committing any immediate aid but instead offered as

sistance in the development of nuclear power plants and potential future business investments. Facing a series of setbacks as traditional allies like Saudi Arabia, Britain, and the United States declined to provide bailout assistance, Zardari officially turned to the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for aid on 22 October. His subsequent visit to Saudi Arabia from 4 to 6 November, aimed at securing financial assistance and trade agreements, yielded limited results due to strained relations betwe

en Zardari and the Saudi royalty, exacerbated by Saudi favoritism towards opposition leader Nawaz Sharif. Amid mounting economic pressure, Pakistan's government sent a letter of intent to the IMF in mid-November 2008, signaling its acceptance of stringent reform conditions in exchange for a multi-billion-dollar loan package. However, the IMF's stipulations, including tax restructuring and state enterprise privatization, elicited mixed responses domestically, with the MQM withdrawing from the gov

ernment in January 2011 over economic policy disagreements. In response to mounting public discontent and the threat of government collapse, Zardari's ruling coalition acquiesced to opposition demands, restoring gas subsidies and shelving many IMF-prescribed reforms. Additionally, in a symbolic gesture to address concerns about government expenditure, Zardari inaugurated an "austerity cabinet" in February 2011, reducing the ministerial roster from 60 to 22. Throughout these economic challenges,

Zardari's leadership was overshadowed by persistent allegations of corruption, with his moniker "Mr. Ten (10) percent" emblematic of accusations that he demanded kickbacks amounting to 10% of government contracts, further complicating efforts to navigate Pakistan's economic woes. Asif Ali Zardari's tenure was marked by fluctuating relations with India, exacerbated by contentious issues such as the Kashmir conflict. In early October 2008, his remarks referring to Kashmiri nationalists in India as

"terrorists" elicited fierce domestic criticism, straining bilateral ties. However, by mid-November 2008, Zardari signaled a shift in Pakistan's stance, suggesting readiness for a no-first-use nuclear policy and advocating for closer economic cooperation between the two nations. The relationship between Pakistan and India suffered a severe blow following the November 2008 Mumbai attacks. Initially denying any Pakistani involvement, Zardari's government later undertook military action against La

shkar-e-Taiba leaders in response to mounting international pressure. Despite India's exoneration of Zardari's administration from direct involvement in the attacks, tensions persisted, with India demanding the extradition of alleged perpetrators. In June 2009, Zardari and Indian Prime Minister Manmohan Singh met for the first time since the Mumbai attacks at a Shanghai Cooperation Organisation summit, signaling a tentative thaw in relations. Zardari's presidency coincided with significant devel

opments in the ongoing conflict in Afghanistan, with Pakistan's Federally Administered Tribal Areas (FATA) and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) regions serving as crucial battlegrounds. Diplomatic relations with Afghan President Hamid Karzai improved following Pervez Musharraf's departure, fostering a unified approach between Pakistan and the United States in dealing with the Afghanistan-Pakistan (AfPak) conflict. During his initial visit to Afghanistan in January 2009, Zardari pledged enhanced cooperati

on to address shared security challenges. Subsequently, Pakistan secured substantial civilian aid packages from the United States and other Western allies in exchange for cooperation in the AfPak conflict. Despite efforts to pursue a ceasefire with Pashtun tribes in FATA, Zardari faced opposition from Western powers, delaying the signing of the Swat ceasefire until April 2009. The agreement ultimately collapsed as the Pakistani military launched an offensive in the Dir district. Zardari's engage

ment with Afghanistan and the United States intensified following significant events such as the death of Osama bin Laden in Pakistan and the subsequent collaboration between Pakistan and the United States. One of the defining moments of Zardari's presidency was the reinstatement of the judiciary, particularly Chief Justice Iftikhar Chaudhry, following popular pressure and a mass movement led by opposition figures like Nawaz Sharif. Despite initial attempts to disqualify Nawaz Sharif from electi

ons and force his brother Shahbaz Sharif to resign, Zardari's government ultimately succumbed to public demands, leading to the reinstatement of Chaudhry and other judges deposed by Musharraf. This episode underscored the delicate balance of power and the influence of popular movements in Pakistan's political landscape during Zardari's presidency. In April 2009, President Asif Ali Zardari signed the Nizam-e-Adl Regulation into law, formally establishing Sharia law in the Malakand division. In la

te November 2009, Zardari relinquished the chairmanship of the National Command Authority, Pakistan's nuclear oversight agency, to Prime Minister Gillani. This move marked a reduction in presidential powers. In December 2009, the Supreme Court ruled the National Reconciliation Ordinance (NRO) unconstitutional, paving the way for the revival of corruption cases against Zardari. Although Zardari had immunity from prosecution as president, the end of the NRO and earlier corruption cases raised ques

tions about the legality of his presidency, leading to calls for his resignation. Zardari faced legal battles as the Supreme Court ordered the government to reopen corruption charges against him in Switzerland. Despite attempts to prevent charges from being filed, including the resignation of the Attorney General, Zardari received a significant legal victory when the Geneva Attorney General stated that he could not be prosecuted under international laws due to his presidential immunity. In April

2010, the government passed the 18th Amendment to the Constitution, significantly curtailing presidential powers. The amendment transformed the presidency into a ceremonial role by removing the authority to dissolve Parliament, dismiss the Prime Minister, and appoint military chiefs. It also lifted the restriction on the number of terms a Prime Minister could serve, allowing Zardari's political rival Nawaz Sharif to seek a third term. Further amendments, such as the 19th Amendment, were enacted

to address potential conflicts between the President and the judiciary, strengthening the Chief Justice's authority in judicial appointments. Despite these legal and constitutional changes, Zardari faced continued challenges and opposition, as evidenced by a half-empty parliamentary chamber during his annual address in March 2011. In November 2012, the Pakistan government responded to court orders by writing to Swiss authorities to reopen corruption cases against Zardari. However, the Swiss gov

ernment deemed the cases time-barred and declined to reopen them. The 2010 Pakistan floods stand out as one of the most catastrophic natural disasters in the nation's history, triggered by heavy rains in late July that inundated a significant portion of the country, affecting approximately 20 million people. As Pakistan grappled with this immense crisis, British Prime Minister David Cameron's remarks during a visit to India further strained diplomatic relations, accusing elements within Pakistan

of supporting terrorism. Despite growing domestic pressure, President Asif Ali Zardari embarked on a controversial European tour, beginning in Paris where he met with French President Sarkozy. However, his comments on NATO's efforts in Afghanistan drew criticism from the United States. As the extent of the flood's devastation became apparent, Zardari faced backlash for his perceived lack of sensitivity, including criticism for visiting his Normandy chateau and dining at Cameron's Chequers count

ryside home. Protests erupted in Britain, particularly among the British Pakistani community, against Zardari's visit, compounded by the cancellation of his son Bilawal's expected speech amid accusations of exploiting the trip for political gain. Upon returning to Pakistan, Zardari shifted focus to flood relief efforts, visiting affected areas like Sukkur and Naushera, and coordinating with international organizations. Despite criticisms, Zardari's efforts continued, including aerial inspections

with UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and visits to Jampur with US Senator John Kerry, demonstrating his commitment to addressing the disaster. In early December 2011, President Zardari's health took center stage as he flew to Dubai for medical tests and treatment, reportedly following a "small stroke." The Prime Minister at the time, Yousuf Raza Gilani, cited "threats to his life" as a reason for seeking medical care outside Pakistan. This development occurred amidst the "Memogate" controversy

, adding to the political tumult surrounding Zardari's health condition. While recuperating in Dubai, his son, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, assumed a more prominent role in Pakistani politics. By mid-December, Zardari had left the hospital to continue his recovery in the Persian Gulf, returning to Pakistan by the end of the month. Despite this health setback, Zardari remained active in political affairs, with significant developments unfolding between his first and second presidential terms. He playe

d a pivotal role in revamping the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and assumed the chairmanship of PPPP in 2015. In the backdrop of the Panama Papers case investigation in July 2017, Zardari demanded the resignation of Nawaz Sharif, while also facing legal battles himself. He was acquitted from a long-pending case related to allegations of illegal kickbacks and assets beyond known sources of income, with some speculating on potential political deals influencing the outcome. However, he remained embr

oiled in legal battles, including his arrest in Islamabad in 2019 over a money laundering case and subsequent indictment on corruption charges in August 2020. Despite these challenges, Zardari's political career continued to shape Pakistan's landscape, marked by both triumphs and controversies. In March 2024, Asif Ali Zardari clinched his second term as President of Pakistan, securing a historic victory with 411 votes from the national and provincial assemblies, marking him as the first civilian

to be elected twice to this prestigious position. His triumph came after a parliamentary meeting convened to elect a new president, where he emerged victorious against Mahmood Khan Achakzai. Zardari's family life has been deeply entwined with Pakistani politics, particularly through his late wife, Benazir Bhutto, with whom he had one son and two daughters. His son, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, currently chairs the Pakistan Peoples Party, carrying on the family's political legacy. Despite personal lo

sses, including the passing of his parents, Zardari has navigated his family's role in politics, with his sister Faryal Talpur assuming guardianship of his children following Benazir Bhutto's tragic death. Beyond politics, Zardari's spiritual inclinations have drawn attention, with reports of seeking counsel from spiritual leaders during turbulent times. His health has been a topic of discussion, with reports of past mental health issues, including dementia and post-traumatic stress disorder, ra

ising questions about his fitness for office. However, Zardari maintains he is in good health, with only high blood pressure and diabetes. Known for his wealth, Zardari's financial dealings have often been scrutinized, with reports of significant assets both within Pakistan and abroad, including lavish properties in Surrey, London, Manhattan, and Dubai, showcasing the extent of his wealth and influence. Despite controversies surrounding his wealth and assets, Zardari's political career has endur

ed, marked by his recent reelection and continued influence within Pakistani politics.