ISLAMABAD -- Leaders of some of Pakistan's opposition parties took no time in boycotting a live broadcast on national television this week upon news of a crackdown on prodemocracy activists.
For those outside Pakistan, the boycott is not exactly exciting news. But for Pakistanis, it's a significant event since defiant politicians rarely have the opportunity to go on television, and state-controlled TV at that, to present their views. Their willingness to forgo the opportunity suggests their growing displeasure with Pakistan's military regime, which is accused of arresting hundreds of political activists in this week's swoop.
In the 18 months since Gen. Pervez Musharraf came to power, Pakistan's exposure to democratic values has taken two paths. On the one hand, there's greater tolerance toward dissent, most visible in the appearance of members of the political opposition on TV, and the promise to revert to civilian rule by October next year. But there are limits to the generals' tolerance. Pakistanis do not yet have the opportunity to hold public meetings to press for demands such as a revival of democracy.