Nazri: Malaysia Upholds the Rule of Law

 

The editorial published prior to the beginning of the judicial proceeding against opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim (“Anwar’s Second Sodomy Trial,” Feb. 2) presented a misleading characterization of the trial by focusing on the view of the defendant, rather than presenting a balanced account that included a fair presentation of Mr. Anwar’s alleged victim. As a consequence, The Wall Street Journal Asia falsely cast this trial as politically motivated and portrayed the defendant as the victim.

This case is not political, but a matter to be worked through in our criminal justice system, as it would in any other country. The alleged victim and his family are seeking justice, as is their right under the law.

Malaysia recognizes the presumption of innocence, and this case is no exception. As is the standard practice in Malaysia, the rights of both the accuser and the accused will be respected during the trial of Mr. Anwar. We support due process as each party has an opportunity to present their case to an impartial judge.

Similarly, our government is dedicated to upholding the rule of law and the principle that no one is above the law. Again, this case is no exception. Malaysia’s legal system has the obligation to proceed, not because the accused is Mr. Anwar, but because it has the responsibility to protect and pursue justice on behalf of Malaysian citizens, irrespective of politics.