Asif Ali Zardari has always been one of Pakistan's most controversial political figures and yet he has risen to its most powerful office - the presidency.

Since becoming Pakistan's president in September 2008, Mr Zardari has presided over an increasingly fragile country, a growing militant threat, possible economic meltdown and mounting political instability. Among the many opponents ranged against him are a number of estranged former allies, who include one of the country's most popular politicians, Nawaz Sharif.

Mr Zardari has negotiated many a dramatic turn since his marriage 20 years ago to the charismatic former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto. He was thrust into centre stage of current political developments when Ms Bhutto was assassinated in December 2007. Since then he has led her Pakistan People's Party (PPP) through successful general elections and worked with former political enemies to force President Pervez Musharraf to resign.