[Allegra]

The explanation went like this: ‘Why tell the truth at first? It is better to lie, then you can perhaps tell the truth later, if necessary. If you tell the truth right away, where else can you go?’ It is a pakistani culture thing, so don’t be surprised at incidents like this.

I work in the Middle East. I even work directly with a government ministry office. I understand the inclusion and acceptance of deception in the culture. What I don't understand is why that story in such a high profile indident, when it was pretty obvious that Ms. Butto had been shot.

[5050 no line]

Hi Allegra

I follow your posts for your views, news and opinions, which I value highly as a person on the spot and involved. My work in the ME was within Governmental structures.

My take on your point is that there has probably been a left hand/right hand aspect to dealing with this particular matter at the relative short notice often required to get the body underground, for reasons we are all familiar with.

The masses had to have some appeasing story right away, as we all are aware the place is a powder keg. An early, but inaccurate, (panicky?) official statement was required to try to keep the situation cool. Not highly successful and perhaps from the ‘left hand’ source. Once the contrary evidence was so obvious from independent video, eyewitnesses etc, a more accurate ‘right hand’ version can be released once more concrete ‘stabilising measures’ have been put place to cope.

Your view?