Pakistan's new president to face crises

By Robert Birsel

ISLAMABAD (Reuters) - Pakistan's new president, almost certain to be the widower of Benazir Bhutto, will have to contend with a host of critical problems including militant violence and an economy in crisis.

Investors, longing for an end to political uncertainty that has helped drag stocks and the rupee down, hope Saturday's presidential vote by members of the two-chamber parliament and four provincial assemblies will usher in a period of stability.

But the chances of that appear slim, not least because of militant violence spilling out of the northwest that this week apparently brought an assassination attempt on Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gilani.

Analysts say an election win by Asif Ali Zardari, the controversial husband of former prime minister Bhutto, is virtually a foregone conclusion.

Zardari was thrust into the centre of politics by his wife's assassination on December 27, and then to the centre of power by a February parliamentary election victory by their Pakistan People's Party (PPP).

His decision in August to begin impeachment proceedings against former president Pervez Musharraf led to the latter's resignation, and cleared the way for Zardari to win the top job.

But political uncertainty, exacerbated by a split in the PPP-led coalition last month, security worries and a sagging economy have sapped investor confidence and dragged Pakistan's main stock index down 34 percent this year.

The index rose 1 percent on Friday, partly helped by optimism Saturday's vote will bring some political clarity. The rupee has lost 20 percent to the dollar this year but firmed to 76.40/50.

Pakistan's dwindling foreign exchange reserves, widening current account deficit and sliding currency could result in a ratings downgrade as doubts mount over its ability to meet external debt obligations.

But it will probably avoid sovereign debt default as its stability is such an important geopolitical factor institutions such as the International Monetary Fund will eventually help it meet obligations, analysts say.

TIGHTROPE

Zardari, who spent 11 years in jail on corruption and other charges but was never convicted, is seen as close to the United States and has repeatedly stressed the commitment of nuclear-armed Pakistan to the campaign against militancy.

But he will take office as anger with the United States is boiling after a bloody incursion by U.S. ground troops into a remote village on the Afghan border this week.

Musharraf saw his popularity dive partly because he was viewed as too close to President George W. Bush. Zardari will walk a tightrope as he tries to assure Washington of his support on security, while trying to calm public anger.

His two rivals for president are Saeeduzzaman Siddiqui, a former judge, nominated by ex-prime minister Nawaz Sharif's party, and Mushahid Hussain Sayed, a senior official of the party that backed Musharraf and ruled under him.