The unsigned note asked for Washington’s help in curbing the powers of the Pakistani army in exchange for security policies favorable to the United States.
The memo was sent to Washington after the May 2011 American operation that killed Osama bin Laden in a Pakistan army town. It appeared to confirm the army’s worst fears that the country’s elected politicians were conspiring with Washington, a potent charge in a country where anti-Americanism runs deep.
The outrage, whipped up by right-wing, pro-army sections of the media, exposed the apparent fragility of the government in the face of generals who have ruled the country for much of its more-than-60-year existence and still run defense and foreign policy.
Haqqani said he now intends to travel to United States to join family there.
“Anywhere else, this matter would have been laid to rest long ago,’’ Haqqani said. “The memo had no impact on US policy and was consigned to the dustbin by its recipient.’’
The Supreme Court set up a commission to investigate the affair after opposition politicians petitioned for an inquest. Despite the fact he had not been charged with a crime, the commission had banned Haqqani from traveling.
Yesterday, it ruled that Haqqani - who has been living in the prime minister’s residence, reportedly worried about threats to his life - could travel. The court said Haqqani had to return to Pakistan if the commission required it. Haqqani said he would comply with the orders.
Up until a few weeks ago, there was speculation that the scandal could lead to the demise of President Asif Ali Zardari. But last week, the main accuser - a Pakistani-American businessman who claimed to have delivered the note to Admiral Mike Mullen, the top US military officer at the time - said he could not come to Pakistan to testify, citing security fears.
