It is simply the truth that the political system that I am part of has degenerated to the point that it needs fundamental change.

I believe that the war against terrorism and the war against poverty in these times of turmoil go together. So you - when you fight one, you have to fight the other.

I am very grateful to our Muslim population. One of the things we've been doing is stepping up our inter-faith dialogue with the Muslim population. And I think that helped very much in their support for me.

It is simply the truth that the political system that I am part of has degenerated to the point that it needs fundamental change.

I feel that if I am freed of the burden of politics, then I can do more and I can take more unpopular decisions. I can have as my guidance for decision whatever is right, not whatever is popular.

The military is faithful to the constitution. They will come in only to protect the people from the enemies of the state.

Over the years, our political system has degenerated to the extent that it's difficult for anyone to make any headway, yet keep his hands clean.