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Khan begs for mercy
Pakistanâs top nuclear scientist has confessed to leaking nuclear secrets to Iran, Libya and North Korea. Abdul Qadeer Khan met President Pervez Musharraf on Wednesday and later went on TV to accept full responsibility for all nuclear transfers. Dr Khan, regarded as a national hero, told the nation he had acted without authorisation and begged forgiveness. Took the fall for everyone. President Musharraf said the case, which has sparked a national outcry, had traumatised Pakistan. Pakistan began an inquiry into possible illegal transfers late last year after the UN passed on information it had gathered about Iran and Libyaâs nuclear programmes. A government statement issued on Wednesday read: "Dr AQ Khan submitted before the president that he accepts full responsibility for all the proliferation activities. "Dr Khan has submitted his mercy petition to the president and requested clemency in view of his services to national security." Made a deal, Iâll wager. Later Dr Khan made his own televised statement in which he cleared President Musharraf and other government and military officials of any involvement in nuclear proliferation. Fall guy, Iâll bet he shed a tear. "There was never ever any kind of authorisation for these activities by the government. I take full responsibility for my actions and seek your pardon," Dr Khan said. He told his television audience: "I have chosen to appear before you to offer my deepest regrets and unqualified apologies." Took the Oprah defense option, go on TV and confess. On Saturday, Dr Khan was sacked as special science and technology adviser to the president. Then on Sunday officials said he had signed a confession admitting he had traded nuclear technology information to other countries. Later on Wednesday, President Musharraf is scheduled to meet the top nuclear decision-making authority to discuss Dr Khanâs plea for mercy. Heâll be dismissed, do a little house arrest and that will be it. Next stop, the book and lecture tour. Posted by: Steve 2004-02-04 |
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