This handout picture released by the Pakistan People's Party shows Asif Ali Zardari (R), co-chairman of the ruling Pakistan People's Party as he addresses the Central Executive Committee meeting in Islamabad on Friday. Pakistan's ruling coalition was riven by divisions despite crunch talks on Friday, raising fears for the government's ability to tackle Taliban bloodshed.Photo: AFP

Key facts about Asif Ali Zardari of Pakistan.
BORN: July 21, 1956 in Karachi.
FAMILY: His wife, Benazir Bhutto, was twice prime minister of Pakistan. She was assassinated Dec. 27, 2007, while campaigning for re-election after 8 years of self-exile. Three children, a 19-year-old son, Bilawal, a student at Oxford University, and two teenage daughters, Bakhtwar and Asifa.
POLITICS: Succeeded his late wife as head of the Pakistan People's Party.
LEGAL WOES: Zardari was nicknamed "Mr. 10 Percent" for allegedly receiving kickbacks on government contracts during his wife's terms as prime minister. He spent eight years in jail for alleged corruption, a charge he and his wife say was politically motivated.