| 09 September 2008 |
 |
| Supporters of ruling Pakistan People's Party (PPP) carry the posters of Pakistan's president-elect Asif Ali Zardari, late former premier Benazir Bhutto, during a rally in Islamabad, 08 Sep 2008 |
After his inauguration Tuesday, President Zardari told reporters he is accepting the position in the name of his late wife and, in his words, "in the name of all martyrs of democracy."
Near the conclusion of the ceremony in the presidential palace, Mr. Zardari's children looked on as some in the audience shouted "Bhutto is alive!"
President Zardari replaces Pervez Musharraf who stepped down under pressure a month ago.
The 53-year-old Mr. Zardari has inherited a list of pressing problems, including a troubled economy and international pressure to crack down on Islamic militants.
Afghanistan's president Hamid Karzai attended the swearing-in ceremony. Mr. Karzai has accused Pakistan of not doing enough to fight extremism.
After a meeting Tuesday the two leaders vowed to work together to fight terrorism and bring stability to the region.
When President Karzai was asked if he believed Pakistan would do more to fight militants, Mr. Karzai said he has found "hope" in the country's new leadership.
0 comments