Asif Zardari, the widower of Pakistan's slain first female leader, Benazir Bhutto, was sworn in on March 10 as president following his election by the National Assembly a day earlier. Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa administered the oath at the presidential palace before civil and military leaders. Zardari, 68, served as president from 2008-13, had the backing of the country’s ruling bloc, which includes the party of three-time Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif. Pakistan's presidency, a five-year term, largely became a ceremonial position after a 2010 constitutional amendment curtailed its authority. Over the years, Zardari has faced various criminal charges, including fraud and money-laundering, and has served prison time. To read the original story by RFE/RL’s Radio Mashaal, click here.
Pakistan's Zardari Sworn In As President For Five-Year Term
Supreme Court Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa (front right) administers an oath to newly sworn-in Pakistani President Asif Ali Zardari (front left) at the President House in Islamabad on March 10.