Malaysia Matters Podcast

Though he may continue to decry the latest accusation as conspiracy and a ploy to disrupt his resurgence to power, Anwar Ibrahim has now been formally charged with the the crime of sodomy with a former aid and is scheduled to receive a trial on September 10. 

In Malaysia, regardless of consent, sodomy carries a punishment of up to 20 years in jail and caning. Anwar has pleaded “not guilty” and is released on bail.

Ever the consummate politician, “after leaving the court, Anwar, who turns 61 on Aug. 10, greeted the crowd and shook hands with supporters. He had earlier arrived accompanied by his wife, Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, and at least two of his children.”

His supporters shouted “reformasi,” the Malay word for “reform,” repeating chants made 10 years ago. About 100 policemen, including riot police, stood by at the court complex. Malaysia’s political turmoil may worsen in the coming weeks and is beginning to hurt corporate earnings and valuations, Credit Suisse Group said today in a report.

It will be interesting to watch how Anwar’s popular status as an underdog weathers a second trial. On the way, he will almost assuredly secure the seat in Parliament his wife is vacating (for him) in the by-elections August 26. 

As reported by Bloomberg.com, “According to the charge read out in court in Malay, Anwar committed the offence with Mohd. Saiful Bukhari Azlan at an apartment block in Kuala Lumpur on the afternoon of June 26.” Since the charges have not included rape, it is unclear whether his accuser will be held to similar account. Saiful has lately been spending a good deal of time in protective custody. 

The Prime Minister, Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, has refuted Anwar’s claims that his prosecution is politically motivated and has cited that key officials involved in Anwar’s previous prosecution have abstained from participating in this case.