Anwar found not guilty of sodomy charges

The High Court today found Opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim not guilty of sodomising his former aide Saiful Bukhari Azlan.

BREAKING NEWS In a surprising twist, Anwar Ibrahim was today acquitted by the Kuala Lumpur High Court of sodomising his former 23-year-old aide, Mohd Saiful Bukhari Azlan.

In discharging the 64-year-old PKR de-facto leader, Justice Mohamad Zabidin Mohd Diah cast doubt on the DNA evidence provided by the prosecution.

"After going through the evidence, I cannot be 100 percent certain that the evidence could have been compromised.

"Hence, the court is reluctant to convict on such corrobaration of evidence from SP1 Saiful."

On hearing the surprise verdict, the courtroom exploded in jubilation.

Anwar's wife Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail cried and hugged her elated husband.

In an immediate reaction, Anwar thanked his lawyers.

"I'm finally vindicated after the smearing of my character. I'm thankful to Wan Azizah and the team of lawyers led by Karpal Singh.

He also thanked the support of Pakatan Rakyat leaders.

"We want to continue on the reform agenda, fighting corruption, and freedom of the press."

Saiful: If not in this world, in the afterworld

Meanwhile, sodomy complainant Saiful tweeted: "If not in this world, in the afterworld. I accept fate, will remain calm and continue praying."

Anwar was represented by a team of lawyers led by Bukit Gelugor MP and DAP chairperson Karpal. Outgoing solicitor-general II Mohd Yusof Zainal Abiden led the prosecution.

Anwar, a former deputy prime minister was charged with sodomising Saiful at the Desa Damansara condominium between 3.01pm and 4.30pm on June 26, 2008. - Malaysiakini