Anwar Ibrahim: Former Malaysian opposition leader released after years in prison
Updated
Former Malaysian opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim — the man who may replace prime minister-elect Mahathir Mohamad — has just been released from prison.
Mr Anwar, who was formerly Dr Mahathir's political rival, has been promised leadership of Malaysia's new governing coalition when Dr Mahathir, 92, decides to step down.
According to Mr Anwar's lawyers, Dr Mahathir's former deputy received a full pardon.
"The pardons board has already met and the King has granted a full pardon, which means all past convictions have been expunged," lawyer Sivarasa Rasiah said.
Mr Anwar is now on his way to have an audience with the King.
Their newfound alliance is a stunning turnaround from the 1990s when — on the orders of Dr Mahathir and his government — Mr Anwar, arrested and jailed on charges of corruption and sodomy.
He was jailed again in 2015, under the reign of Najib Razak.
Mr Anwar always denied the charges and claimed he was a victim of a political conspiracy.
Smiling and waving to supporters, Mr Anwar was wearing a black suit with a tie, surrounded by his family, lawyers and prison guards.
Mr Anwar, 70, was released from custody at Cheras Rehabilitation Centre in Kuala Lumpur, where he was recovering from a shoulder injury.
Foreign Affairs Minister Julie Bishop said in a statement that Australia welcomed Mr Anwar's full pardon and release.
"We have followed Anwar's trial and incarceration closely, and have expressed concern to the previous Malaysian government," she said in a statement.
"We are pleased that the royal pardon will allow Anwar to be reunited with his family in time for Ramadan and again participate fully in Malaysia's politics and governance. Anwar has much to contribute to Malaysia."
ABC/wires
Topics: world-politics, malaysia, asia
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