Former Pakistani Leader Pervez Musharraf in Town

VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) - He says he wants to return to Pakistan and lead his country once again. Former General Pervez Musharraf, who is in Vancouver on a speaking tour, is trying to build support for his new political movement.

Flanked by handlers and RCMP security at the Westin Grand this afternoon, Musharraf said he is gathering support for his new party, All Pakistan Muslim League

He left the country after resigning as military leader in 2008. But he says he wants to return. This time as a civilian leader. 

Musharraf is rejecting claims he might be simply trying to grab power once again. "The people of Pakistan will bring me into power.  And it is my, I would say, boldness, that I've come back and I am playing on the turf of politicians and trying to get elected."

He says he can lead again as a civilian if the people want him to. "If there is sincerity, if there is flexibility and the leadership is bold enough to go for give-and-take, we can resolve the dispute. I am for peace. If I get a chance again, I go for peace, yes. Because war is no more the answer."

The ex-leader also praised Canada for forgiving his country over 300 million dollars worth of debt several years ago.