Pakistan military begins musical chairs

Pakistan's Gen Pervez Musharraf appointed a new military spy chief and made several other promotions today after announcing his…

Pakistan's Gen Pervez Musharraf appointed a new military spy chief and made several other promotions today after announcing his plan to step down as head of the army if re-elected president next month.

Army appointments are closely watched at any time in Pakistan, as generals have ruled for more than half of the 60 years since the country was founded.

Gen Musharraf is going through his weakest phase since coming to power in a coup eight years ago.

The Supreme Court is hearing several petitions challenging his right to hold the dual role of president and army chief, the legality of being elected in uniform, and whether he can be re-elected by the current assemblies before they are dissolved for a general election due by mid-January.

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Pakistan is one of the most important non-Nato allies for the United States, and its support is regarded as crucial for the success of Western military intervention in Afghanistan, and the hunt for al-Qaeda in the tribal border lands.