CALD Resolution No. 8 S. 2004
CALD Resolution welcoming and celebrating the release of Malaysia’s former Deputy Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, wishing for the recovery of Mr. Anwar’s health and noting this positive development as a victory for the cause of Asia’s democracy
Relieved that Malaysia’s highest court, the Federal Court, in a two-one decision dated 2 September 2004 has set free former Deputy Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim by overturning a controversial sodomy conviction;
Noting that Mr. Anwar, once considered as the heir apparent to then Prime Minister Mahathir Mohammed, was sacked, arrested and jailed on September 1998, then sentenced for six years on April 1999 for corruption and then sentenced for another nine years for sodomy;
Aware that on July 2002, Mr. Anwar lost his appeal against the corruption conviction, a conviction that still stands and that may bar him from seeking public office until 2008;
Recognizing that CALD has previously expressed concern regarding Mr. Anwar’s deteriorating health since his detention;
Observing that with the ruling, Mr. Anwar was able to fly to Germany for much needed medical attention
Convinced that this development is a victory for democracy and the rule of law, not only of Malaysia but also for the entire region as well;
Be it therefore resolved that the Council of Asian Liberals & Democrats welcome and celebrate the release of Malaysia’s former Deputy Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, wish for the recovery of Mr. Anwar’s health and note this positive development as a victory for the cause of Asia’s democracy.
For the Council of Asian Liberals & Democrats
President Chen Shui-bian
Chairman
Taipei, Taiwan September 21, 2004
