But, given Musharraf s lack of legitimacy, such a move would further infuriate Bhutto s supporters, whose street power Bhutto had contained since October.

So there was a vacuum to fill, accompanied by a strong desire among the party faithful for revival. Royal s chief virtue is that she has not taken part in the numerous internal battles that infuriate socialist militants and voters, and her lack of direct association with the party s leadership has enabled her to avoid blame for its mistakes.