Musharraf unclear on bin Laden's status

SIOUX FALLS, S.D., Oct. 3 (UPI) -- Former Pakistani leader Pervez Musharraf said during a U.S. appearance he does not know whether wanted terrorist Osama bin Laden is alive or dead.

During an appearance at Augustana College in Sioux Falls, S.D., the former Pakistani president said nearly five years ago, his country and the United States lost track of Obama, the individual behind the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks, USA Today reported Saturday.

"I don't know whether he's dead or alive," Musharraf, 66, said Friday.

"It was some five years back when there was some intelligence that got picked up of a broad location. Then suddenly, we lost track."

Musharraf, who blamed Pakistani and U.S. intelligence for bin Laden's disappearance, also spoke of his dedication to democracy during his presidency in Pakistan.

"This gives me pride to say, that although I was a military man -- a man in uniform -- I did believe in real essence of democracy," he said. "I take pride in declaring that I introduced the essence of democracy in Pakistan."