Anwar acquittal spices up M’sian politics
What we are beginning to see is the slow reassertion of Malaysia’s public institutions, in tandem with a realisation that some form of political liberalisation is unavoidable.
Of course, there will always be questions over the handling of any legal case and these will continue for the foreseeable future. But we cannot dismiss the psychological impact of the trial: it is incontrovertible proof that Malaysia’s judiciary is more independent than commonly thought and that both the ordinary and powerful can truly seek justice at our courts.
KARIM RASLAN, THE STAR
MOST Malaysians have been dreading the Jan 9 Anwar Ibrahim ‘Sodomy 2’ trial decision.
The prospect of the Opposition Leader being returned to prison was deeply depressing, if not offensive, even to those such as myself who remain sceptical of the man.
Still, his surprise acquittal has major implications for the country.
Let’s start with the most important point. Over the past decade, faith in national institutions has been on a downward tailspin. As a consequence, the judiciary and the police have become increasingly distrusted.
The many instances of corruption, abuse of power as well as perceived selective persecution have eroded Malaysians’ faith in their country and in each other.
The attendant cynicism and suspicion have made moving the nation forward, be it socially or economically, all the more difficult.
Indeed, why would anyone want to sacrifice for a place where justice and fair play are fatally wounded?
What we are beginning to see, however, is the slow, piecemeal reassertion and revival of Malaysia’s public institutions, in tandem with a realisation that some form of political liberalisation is unavoidable.
This stems not only from the acquittal of Anwar but also the continued fearlessness of the Auditor-General’s Reports and the tentative reforms that the Government has embarked upon in terms of civil liberties (like the controversial Peaceful Assembly Bill) and elections.
It would seem that the people manning these institutions have crossed a Rubicon of sorts.
They have come to realise that they have a larger duty to the people and that this surpasses any political pressure that may be brought upon them.
Such sentiments are crucial if the country is to progress and survive in the future.
The courage, fair-mindedness and independence of men such as Auditor-General Ambrin Buang and Suhakam chairman Hasmy Agam ought to be lauded by all.
Of course, there will always be questions over the handling of any legal case and these will continue for the foreseeable future. But we cannot dismiss the psychological impact of the trial: it is incontrovertible proof that Malaysia’s judiciary is more independent than commonly thought and that both the ordinary and powerful can truly seek justice at our courts.
At the same time, Umno strategists must begin to acknowledge the extent to which their dominant position is actually undermining their capacity on the ground.
Ordinary Malaysians have become tired of being lectured to. They want people who’ll really work for them.
But what will Anwar’s acquittal do to Malaysia’s current political equation?
I think the most obvious answer is that Anwar and Pakatan are now a fact of life that Barisan Nasional (BN) will have to deal with.
Anwar has made his political career operating outside the establishment. He has the wiliness to function and succeed without the benefits of government privilege.
The various personal attacks on him have only made him stronger and increased public disdain for his critics and their “dirty tricks”.
BN, and indeed its Umno lynchpin, must now learn to engage Anwar and Pakatan on equal terms.
To my mind, the ruling coalition does have a strong record of achievement in Government as well as a breathtaking flexibility in terms of policy-making and implementation.
The challenge is to rise to the debate and not “close” it off.
Malaysians want greater openness and fairness in public discourse. We need to dispense with the prurience and small-mindedness that have been a hallmark of the last few years.
Race and religion also need to be dealt with in a manner that is more mature and confident. We need to turn our so-called “weaknesses” (namely our diverse multi-cultural society) into strengths.
For that to succeed we need to open the doors of our public life in a determined manner.
There should be no further distractions and the rakyat will want to know what Pakatan can do for the country if the opposition still wants their votes.
Anwar, for all his flaws, has proven that he has the patience and perseverance to go the distance politically — the task for him now is to finally convert the rhetoric into substance.
His continued freedom will make Malaysian politics all the more interesting. Still, this goes far beyond politics.
Justice has been served and broadened. The people are the ultimate winners.
