In 1988, when democracy was restored, the military establishment was still very powerful. The extremist groups were still there. And when the aid and assistance to Pakistan was cut, we had to adopt harsh economic policies. So in a way, it showed that democracy doesn't pay, and the military was able to reassert itself.

I dream ...of a world where we can commit our social resources to the development of human life and not to its destruction

The military wants a system that protects its policies and privileges.

The Orange Revolution in Ukraine is a good example of how people, who are robbed of their right to vote, can protest and put an end to dictatorship.

Given the right to a free ballot, the people would support my return.

I am planning to return and contest the October elections in Pakistan.

Dictatorships by their nature are unrepresentative as they neglect the social needs of the people.