The comeback kid gets a deserved second chance

Suddenly, Malaysia has something to show to the world. Monday’s surprise acquittal on sodomy charges of opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim has demonstrated that the country’s judiciary is independent and accountable, at least in this controversial case. For the past two years, the opposition party leader has been fighting a lengthy legal battle over the charges. This was the second time he was acquitted on the charge. Indeed, if good common sense had prevailed, the latest sodomy allegation should not have been brought before the court in the first place. As it turned out, it tarnished Malaysia’s regional and international image.

For now, Anwar’s nightmare is over. He must immediately look ahead and build up his opposition coalition, the Pakatan Rakyat, to contest the next election, which is expected in 2013. There is a possibility that an earlier election could happen later this year. His will not be an easy task because during his trial, he was unable to focus on the party’s consolidation. His opponents have continuously tried to undermine his political career, as they did earlier when his coalition won five of 13 states in 2008. He can now campaign throughout the country and abroad. Foreign governments do not have to shy away from him anymore.

It is interesting to note that since he came to power, Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak has made continual appearances on the international stage, promoting his administration’s good governance and democratic values. Until the Anwar verdict, the issue remained a big thorn in his side. Najib knows well that the world is now watching him and Malaysia closely. He wants to see Malaysia transform into a prominent regional player. He has even promoted the concept of a global community of moderates, which could be a pivotal force in shaping the world’s peace and prosperity. 

It is not surprising then, following the court decision, that he was quick to point out that the verdict has cleared his government of long-standing allegations that it used influence to pressure the courts to remove Anwar from politics. 

From now on, Najib’s government has to do more if he wants to earn a reputation as a reformist, a leader who ushered in an era of transparency, democracy and prosperity for Malaysia. For instance, the country should do away with laws against homosexuality and freedom of expression. Indeed, Malaysia should learn something from more liberal Asean countries in dealing with these topics.

Now that the playing field is level and thrown wide open for both Najib and Anwar, it is important that their future political engagements and contests be civil and decent. As the history has shown, Malaysian political tricks can be deadly and highly manipulative. 

At the moment, Malaysians are unhappy with the current political situation, as they want an open society in which all races can participate fully, and of course choose their leaders. They are proud people, seeing themselves as the world’s most developed Islamic society. Indeed, Najib can make a difference and help Malaysia take off. His western friends have already praised Malaysia over the court verdict. Even Anwar himself expressed surprise at the outcome. 

Besides the Burmese opposition leader, Aung San Suu Kyi, Anwar is the most recognised name among Asian democrats. He is a charismatic fighter and has done much to bring regional attention to inter-faith dialogue and cooperation. Over the past few decades he has spoken out against regional tyrants and raised the bar of democracy in this part of the world. His ability to convince the Malays, Chinese and Indians to work together could propel him to the top. That has always been his ambition, which was hindered by a jail sentence of six years for misuse of power. 

For the time being, there is light at the end of the tunnel. The democratic wind is blowing. If all stakeholders in Malaysian society can actively take part in politics without fear, Malaysia can certainly rise and join the ranks of leading nations.