Wednesday 11 February 2015
WATCH: TV host facepalms after Saudi historian says rape is ‘not a big deal’ for women drivers
A Saudi historian recently defended his country’s prohibition against female drivers by saying that women who drove “don’t care if they are raped on the roadside.”
During an interview on the Saudi news show Rotana Khalijiyya in January, historian Saleh Al-Saadoon explained that there was a difference between riding camels and driving cars.
“Women used to ride camels, so one might ask what prevents them from driving cars,” Al-Saadoon told the host, according to a translation provided by The Middle East Media Research Institute (MEMRI).
Al-Saadoon said that there was a “special circumstance” in Saudi Arabia that put women at risk while driving between cities that were far apart.
“If a woman drives from one city to another and her car breaks down, what will become of her?” he asked.
“Well, women drive in America, in Europe, and in the Arab world,” the host noted.
“They don’t care if they are raped on the roadside, but we do,” Al-Saadoon insisted.
“Hold on,” the host interrupted. “Who told you they don’t care about getting raped on the roadside?”
“It’s not a big deal for them beyond the damage to their morale,” Al-Saadoon opined. “In our case, however, the problem is of a social and religious nature.”
“What is rape if not a blow to the morale of a woman?” the host pressed. “That goes deeper than the social damage.”
“But in our case it affects the family,” Al-Saadoon said.
However, the Rotana Khalijiyya host refused to accept that answer.
“What, society and the family are more important that the woman’s morale?” she shot back.
Al-Saadoon argued that morale was only “part of the problem.”
“Saudi women are driven around by their husbands, sons and brothers,” he said. “Everybody is at their service. They are like queens. A queen without a chauffeur has the honor of being driven around by her husband, brother, son and nephews. They are at the ready when she gestures with her hands.”
“You are afraid that a woman might be raped by the roadside by soldiers, but you are not afraid that she might be raped by her chauffeur?” the host pointed out.
“Of course, I am,” the historian remarked. “There is a solution but the government officials and clerics refuse to hear of it. The solution is to bring female foreign chauffeurs to drive our wives.”
At this point, the host was forced to place her hand over her mouth to contain her laughter.
“Why not?” Al-Saadoon wondered. “Are you with me on this? There might be some considerable opposition to this, but…”
“Female foreign chauffeurs? Seriously?” the host said, finally losing her composure.
Watch the video below, originally broadcast on Jan. 11, 2015. It was uploaded to YouTube by MEMRI on Jan. 31, 2015.
‘What are you waiting for?’: Slick new ISIS campaign puts new face on homegrown terror
By Malia ZimmermanBuoyed by the Islamist terror attack on satirical magazine Charlie Hebdo, ISIS has continued a slick campaign with the twisted theme, "What are you waiting for?" and featuring fresh-faced jihadists urging radicals in French-speaking countries to stay put and kill innocents.
In one video released online last week, titled, “Blow Up France 2,” a masked jihadist bearing an assault weapon exhorts Muslims to continue terror attacks in that country.
“Don’t give up and particularly don’t lower your weapons, don’t surrender -- kill. Today, it’s our darwa -- kill them. You now have more than 4 million targets,” the jihadist said in French.
Just hours after the video release, Moussa Coulibaly, 30, allegedly stabbed three French soldiers on patrol near a Jewish community center in Nice. The police officers, who were on anti-terror patrol, were not seriously hurt. Coulibaly, 31, who shares the surname of Amedy Coulibaly, the gunman who killed four people at a Jewish supermarket in Paris on Jan. 9 in the aftermath of the Charlie Hebdo attack, was nabbed near the scene.
“These video releases mark the significant push that Islamic State is having toward Francophone recruitment,” Veryan Khan, of the Terrorism Research & Analysis Consortium (TRAC), a Florida-based global research firm specializing in political violence and terrorism. “If it also results in transnational attacks outside the Sham, then that is just gravy on top of the plate for them.”
Some of the propaganda also bears English subtitles, indicating they aim to recruit Westerners. Islamic State has so far put out four of the French-language videos asking the question "What are you waiting for?" beginning in November. The initial video called on foreign fighters to attack their host country if they cannot join Islamic State in the caliphate.
“ISIS did not want this exclusively for a French audience," said Ryan Mauro, security analyst for the Clarion Project, an educational group focused on Islamist extremism. "The group wanted to send a message to Americans, as well.”
Recent videos feature a series of man-on-the-street style interviews asking jihadists their opinions on everything from the murder of Jordanian air force pilot Moath al-Kaseasbeh, who was burned alive in January by ISIS leaders while trapped in a cage, to the beheading of Japanese journalist Kenji Goto.
One of the seven jihadists featured in the most recent video is likely Hayat Boumeddiene, the 26-year-old widow of Amedy Coulibaly, according to French authorities. French police killed Coulibaly, 32, after he murdered four hostages in the Paris supermarket Hyper Cacher. Boumeddiene, last seen Jan. 12 in a surveillance video at the Istanbul Airport, is now French law enforcement’s “most wanted” woman and is believed to have joined ISIS in Syria or Iraq.
The supermarket siege came two days after 12 people were murdered in an attack on Charlie Hebdo, the news outlet known for its controversial series of cartoons mocking followers of Islam's Prophet Muhammad. Although that attack was linked to Al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula, Amedy Coulibaly is believed to have been a follower of Islamic State.
“Ever since the Charlie Hebdo attacks ‘avenged’ the prophet, there has been a growing trend to justify terrorist acts, such as this murder, by claiming it was an act of vengeance,” Khan said. “Just this week in Sinai, Egypt, ISIS released a video titled, ‘We Swear We Will Revenge.’”
Khan believes the videos, along with other recruitment efforts, are having an impact.
“It’s very possible that the Paris attacks were influenced by this video, which was extremely popular with the Twitter crowd,” Khan said.
Islamic State is making videos targeting the French because they are having success there, said Mauro.
“In the aftermath of the Paris attacks and the latest attack on French soldiers, ISIS knows that will generate attention,” he said.
In the videos, the French-speaking fighters boldly show their faces in some of the videos, indicating they have no intention of returning to France, Khan said.
“The theme of most of their interviews is that France is no place for a Muslim, as they cannot truly actualize their faith in that country,” Khan said.
France is not a country where citizenship, culture or birth can make you French, Khan said, as national identity is in a number of factors not attainable by outsiders.
“Add to this the measures France has taken to protect itself against the insider threat it faces, including banning the niqab (veil or mask), plus the usual complaints that Western religious freedom actually oppresses Muslims by exposing them to what they find morally reprehensible, and there you get the reason for their repeated, triumphal rejection of France,” Khan said.
The videos also call on jihadists to rise up in Belgium, Germany, Switzerland and the West. Khan believes the videos and other Islamic State tactics have even inspired attacks on law enforcement in France and Canada.
Islamic State is undoubtedly the terrorist group that has been most successful in their online media strategies, Mauro said.
“This successful strategy has enabled ISIS to win over the next generation of jihadists,” Mauro said. “A young radical can feel as if he or she is part of an actual community in the jihadist online world and, unlike Al Qaeda, ISIS can actually claim to be seizing ground and making progress. These videos help ISIS supporters feel as if they are part of an exciting turning point in Islamic history.”
US, UK concerned with Anwar’s sodomy verdict
The United States and the United Kingdom have both expressed concern over the Federal Court’s decision to uphold PKR de facto leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim’s conviction for sodomy.In separate statements, officials from both countries said that Anwar’s case raises questions about the independence and fairness of Malaysia’s judiciary, and the country’s rule of law.
“The United States is deeply disappointed with Mr Anwar’s conviction following a government appeal of the original verdict finding him not guilty,” said Bernadette Meehan, a spokesperson of the US National Security Council.
“The decision to prosecute Mr Anwar and the conduct of his trial have raised a number of serious concerns about rule of law and the fairness of the judicial system in Malaysia,” Meehan said in a statement emailed from PKR’s communication’s secretariat.
“These concerns are compounded by the government’s intent to expand its sedition law, which Prime Minister (Datuk Seri) Najib Razak had pledged to repeal, to prosecute government critics.”
Meanwhile the UK's Minister for Asia, Hugo Swire also said that he was deeply concerned by Anwar’s imprisonment.
“His case raises worrying questions about the independence of the judiciary and rule of law in Malaysia. As such, we have consistently raised our concerns with the Malaysian government,” said Swire in a statement emailed to The Malaysian Insider.
Anwar starts his five-year jail term today after the Federal Court quashed his appeal against a conviction of sodomising former aide Mohd Saiful Bukhari Azlan in 2008.
Meehan said National Security Advisor Susan Rice had met with Malaysian opposition leaders in April 2014, where the latter delivered a message from the US President on human rights.
Meehan said the message was that countries who uphold the human rights of all their citizens – regardless of their political affiliation, ethnicity, race, religion or sexual orientation – are ultimately more prosperous and more stable.
“The United States and Malaysia have built a strong 'comprehensive partnership', and we remain committed to expanding our cooperation on shared economic and security challenges affecting our countries’ interests in Asia and globally.
“In that context, we urge the Government of Malaysia to apply the rule of law fairly, transparently, and apolitically in order to promote confidence in Malaysia’s democracy, judiciary, and economy.”
Swire also said the UK encouraged Malaysia to recognise the importance of international confidence in its judicial system and to restore trust in its commitment to human rights.
“Malaysia is an important partner and friend to the UK. We continue to believe that the integrity of the rule of law is a key part of its success, as are the values of moderation and tolerance.” – February 11, 2015.
Dr M: Something rotten in the M'sian gov't
COMMENT Marcellus in Shakespeare’s Hamlet remarked that “something is rotten in the state of Denmark.”
Perhaps from the complaints being made by Malaysians about Malaysia one might say there is something rotten in the state of Malaysia.
Many of these complaints reach me. I hope I am permitted to detail them here. People can decide whether things are rotten or not.
Some people complain that the government seem unwilling to pay them for work done for the government.
There would always be a dispute whether the government owes them anything at all. If the court decides that the government has to pay there would be a dispute with regard to the amount.
Then there would be delays, sometimes for years. For business, delays can kill.
Stolen submissions
Then there are those whose contracts have been withdrawn for unknown reasons. Often it is given to someone else even after the contract documents have been signed.
Then there are those whose project submissions have been passed on to others. The others make bids at a higher price but the documents are identical.
Frequently the first proposer or bidder has to go through tender process. This is only right of course. But the proposer as first bidder would find others have submitted what looked like his submission.
Frequently he fails or has to raise his bid because the others have quoted higher prices or lower prices as the case may be.
Delays in getting approval costs. The reasons for the delays are frivolous and cannot stand scrutiny.
Sometimes to speed up approvals gratification is offered. The party that offers pays and will not complain or report. It is unhealthy.
You will need their services again and you may be blacklisted. Or you may find all kinds of obstacles.
Powerful people who want land
Long before the permits or whatever is due to be terminated, notices for immediate termination were given. The authorities want to take over the business. The person concern may appeal. He is going to lose money.
Sometimes the appeal is not answered, the authorities cannot be met and if meeting is possible, the applicant may be told that his loss is his problem, not the concern of the authorities.
Sometimes development permission cannot be given because some authority or powerful person wants the land. There is no one to appeal to i.e. no one with real authority.
Even if you know who wants the land, you cannot do anything. He is too powerful.
Government-owned entities employing more than a thousand workers are suddenly given no job because some foreigner has been chosen to get the contract.
The workers were sacked. And the government facilities may just close down or get some minor subcontract from the foreign contractor.
Local companies with adequate competence are not considered for contracts because foreign companies can do the job, may be better, may be no better.
Frequently the local companies are said to be too small to do the job. Lots of money flows out of the country.
Oodles of money
We go all out to welcome foreign direct investment. But Malaysian entities with lots of money will not invest at home.
They prefer to go buy properties in foreign land. The prices paid are sometimes indefensible. Again lots of money flow out of the country.
And when profits are made, taxes are paid to the foreign country. Even when the money is brought back, no tax is paid to the Malaysian Government.
There is a need for investments at home, but that is not for local companies. Malaysians institutions with oodles of money would do better by buying foreign technology companies and bringing them home to improve our technological capacities. But there is no encouragement for doing this.
If a Malaysian company is in trouble, we seem to prefer bankrupting them and selling them to foreigners. Proposals to rescue by Malaysian white knights are not welcome. Due diligence cannot be done by the white knights for some unknown reasons.
After tin was exhausted it was assumed that there would be no more mining in Malaysia. Then we found that we still have lots of other minerals. But mining for these is not for Malaysians. They are for foreigners only.
No attempt is made to add value before export. Just dig the earth and export the things raw. And forests disappear along with the mining.
There was once some idea about being business-friendly. Not anymore. The state competes with the private sector when the private sector seems to be doing well.
With the power conferred on the state, there is no way the private sector can win. They lose.
But the states also lose simply because business is not the business of the state. Still the trend and preference is for nationalisation.
Big is beautiful
Big is beautiful. So why have small business? Kill them. But big businesses were once small. If you kill small business, then they can never grow big. So how do we get big business if we kill them when they were in their infancy?
There is a lot of talk about the importance of small and medium enterprise. But what is happening on the ground does not reflect this importance.
Today the actual administration seems less important than the extra administrative bodies which have been set up. This is very confusing to the public.
It seems to be confusing to the administrators also. They do not seem to know what they are expected to do when policies and decisions are made by the special bodies.
Critics are being demonised by the mainstream media, by certain individuals and politicians who had lost. Critics risk their property being seized and auctioned. They may be bankrupted.
I am now being accused of forcing the government to do things which should not be done.
And there are many more complaints about the state which would give it a rotten smell.
But not to worry. We will get use to the smell.
DR MAHATHIR MOHAMAD was Malaysia's fourth prime minister. This commentary is reproduced from his blog.
Perhaps from the complaints being made by Malaysians about Malaysia one might say there is something rotten in the state of Malaysia.
Many of these complaints reach me. I hope I am permitted to detail them here. People can decide whether things are rotten or not.
Some people complain that the government seem unwilling to pay them for work done for the government.
There would always be a dispute whether the government owes them anything at all. If the court decides that the government has to pay there would be a dispute with regard to the amount.
Then there would be delays, sometimes for years. For business, delays can kill.
Stolen submissions
Then there are those whose contracts have been withdrawn for unknown reasons. Often it is given to someone else even after the contract documents have been signed.
Then there are those whose project submissions have been passed on to others. The others make bids at a higher price but the documents are identical.
Frequently the first proposer or bidder has to go through tender process. This is only right of course. But the proposer as first bidder would find others have submitted what looked like his submission.
Frequently he fails or has to raise his bid because the others have quoted higher prices or lower prices as the case may be.
Delays in getting approval costs. The reasons for the delays are frivolous and cannot stand scrutiny.
Sometimes to speed up approvals gratification is offered. The party that offers pays and will not complain or report. It is unhealthy.
You will need their services again and you may be blacklisted. Or you may find all kinds of obstacles.
Powerful people who want land
Long before the permits or whatever is due to be terminated, notices for immediate termination were given. The authorities want to take over the business. The person concern may appeal. He is going to lose money.
Sometimes the appeal is not answered, the authorities cannot be met and if meeting is possible, the applicant may be told that his loss is his problem, not the concern of the authorities.
Sometimes development permission cannot be given because some authority or powerful person wants the land. There is no one to appeal to i.e. no one with real authority.
Even if you know who wants the land, you cannot do anything. He is too powerful.
Government-owned entities employing more than a thousand workers are suddenly given no job because some foreigner has been chosen to get the contract.
The workers were sacked. And the government facilities may just close down or get some minor subcontract from the foreign contractor.
Local companies with adequate competence are not considered for contracts because foreign companies can do the job, may be better, may be no better.
Frequently the local companies are said to be too small to do the job. Lots of money flows out of the country.
Oodles of money
We go all out to welcome foreign direct investment. But Malaysian entities with lots of money will not invest at home.
They prefer to go buy properties in foreign land. The prices paid are sometimes indefensible. Again lots of money flow out of the country.
And when profits are made, taxes are paid to the foreign country. Even when the money is brought back, no tax is paid to the Malaysian Government.
There is a need for investments at home, but that is not for local companies. Malaysians institutions with oodles of money would do better by buying foreign technology companies and bringing them home to improve our technological capacities. But there is no encouragement for doing this.
If a Malaysian company is in trouble, we seem to prefer bankrupting them and selling them to foreigners. Proposals to rescue by Malaysian white knights are not welcome. Due diligence cannot be done by the white knights for some unknown reasons.
After tin was exhausted it was assumed that there would be no more mining in Malaysia. Then we found that we still have lots of other minerals. But mining for these is not for Malaysians. They are for foreigners only.
No attempt is made to add value before export. Just dig the earth and export the things raw. And forests disappear along with the mining.
There was once some idea about being business-friendly. Not anymore. The state competes with the private sector when the private sector seems to be doing well.
With the power conferred on the state, there is no way the private sector can win. They lose.
But the states also lose simply because business is not the business of the state. Still the trend and preference is for nationalisation.
Big is beautiful
Big is beautiful. So why have small business? Kill them. But big businesses were once small. If you kill small business, then they can never grow big. So how do we get big business if we kill them when they were in their infancy?
There is a lot of talk about the importance of small and medium enterprise. But what is happening on the ground does not reflect this importance.
Today the actual administration seems less important than the extra administrative bodies which have been set up. This is very confusing to the public.
It seems to be confusing to the administrators also. They do not seem to know what they are expected to do when policies and decisions are made by the special bodies.
Critics are being demonised by the mainstream media, by certain individuals and politicians who had lost. Critics risk their property being seized and auctioned. They may be bankrupted.
I am now being accused of forcing the government to do things which should not be done.
And there are many more complaints about the state which would give it a rotten smell.
But not to worry. We will get use to the smell.
DR MAHATHIR MOHAMAD was Malaysia's fourth prime minister. This commentary is reproduced from his blog.
PKR looks to Azizah, DAP guns for opposition chief
However, Malaysiakini learnt that DAP has its sights on the post.
According to party sources, DAP wants its supremo Lim Kit Siang to be appointed.
Contacted
later, PKR secretary-general Rafizi Ramli confirmed that DAP had
previously conveyed this to them but said any final decision would only
be known after the Pakatan Rayat leadership meeting, tentatively slated
for Friday."It was never formally discussed before but DAP did mention that if Anwar goes to jail, then the opposition leader post should go to Lim as they have the most number of seats in Parliament," he told Malaysiakini.
DAP controls 37 seats in Parliament, followed by PKR with 29 and PAS 21. This is after DAP lost Teluk Intan and former Selangor menteri besar Abdul Khalid Ibrahim was sacked from PKR and hence becoming an independent.
With Anwar's jailing, PKR will have to also vacate the Permatang Pauh parliamentary constituency.
Lim,
on the other hand, is the most senior leader in the opposition, having
served as MP since 1969 with only a brief break between 1999 and 2004
when he was defeated in Bukit Bendera.The veteran also served as opposition leader thrice during his career.
DAP, which saw Anwar as the candidate for prime minister, had conceded the opposition leader position to him despite winning the most parliamentary seats in Pakatan.
When quizzed, DAP national organising secretary Anthony Loke declined to confirm or deny the matter.
"The question of the opposition leader will be discussed at the Pakatan leadership council and we will put forward our arguments then.
"I do not want to pre-empt our decision and do not want to reveal what is our arguments until then," he said.
DAP assures Pakatan takes precedent
Loke said regardless of DAP's arguments, its priority is to ensure that the opposition coalition can remain intact.
Meanwhile, Rafizi said within PKR itself, the party too has not discussed about its candidate for the opposition leader post.
However, he added that DAP may be willing to concede if PKR president Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail returns to Parliament and takes up the position of opposition leader.
"If
Wan Azizah contests in Permatang Pauh, then DAP may be more willing to
offer the opposition leader position to her as she had previously held
the position."Wan Azizah has been the symbol of Anwar before he became opposition leader," he said.
Rafizi also revealed that in previous Pakatan discussions, there have been proposals that the opposition leader be appointed on a rotation basis between DAP, PKR and PAS.
However, he said tonight's Pakatan meeting, which is at the secretary-general level, will focus on providing direction to supporters.
He also denied an Astro Awani news tweet quoting PKR deputy president Azmin Ali that the opposition leader will be decided at a Pakatan meeting within 24 hours.
"It is sensitive to discuss the position of opposition leader right now. We need to first coordinate our efforts, some of our supporters even want to go to the streets now so we need to make sure they get the right instructions," he said.
Polis berpangkat ‘tiga paku’ tahan Zunar
Anggota polis memberitahu bahawa penahanan ini dilakukan atas arahan orang atasan kerana posting beliau di laman sosial, Twitter
FMT
PETALING JAYA: Empat orang pegawai polis berkumpul di hadapan rumah kartunis, Zulkiflee SM Anwar UlHaque untuk menahannya ekoran tweetnya di laman sosial Twitter.
Beliau yang lebih dikenali sebagai Zunar memberitahu wartawan Free Malaysia Today(FMT) bahawa akan ditahan di Ibu Pejabat Daerah (IPD) Polis Dang Wangi dan percaya akan tidur di lokap pada malam ini.
“Saya didatangi empat orang polis diketuai oleh seorang anggota berpangkat tiga paku bernama Muniandi.
“Mereka berpakaian preman kecuali seorang anggota polis berpangkat ‘tiga paku’ yang berpakaian ‘highlight’,”ujarnya.
Ketika dihubungi FMT pada lewat petang semalam, Zunar mengakui kesemua anggota polis berada di pintu pagar luar rumahnya yang terletak di Pantai Dalam.
“Anggota polis itu memberitahu bahawa penahanan ini dilakukan atas arahan orang atasan kerana tweet di Twitter,” ujarnya lagi.
Penahan itu dipercayai susulan arahan Ketua Polis Negara, Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar kepada pihak Polis Diraja Malaysia (PDRM) untuk menyiasat Zunar dan juga dua orang lagi Ahli Parlimen yang lain, iaitu Ahli Parlimen Pandang, Rafizi Ramli dan juga Ahli Parlimen Taiping, Nga Kor Ming
Khalid melalui laman Twitter berkata polis perlu menyiasat segera kenyataan Zunar di laman berkenaan.
Terdahulu, kartunis itu dalam tulisannya di Twitter menyebut: “Barua berjubah hitam bangga jatuhkan hukuman. Habuan dari tuan politik pasti lumayan.”
FMT
PETALING JAYA: Empat orang pegawai polis berkumpul di hadapan rumah kartunis, Zulkiflee SM Anwar UlHaque untuk menahannya ekoran tweetnya di laman sosial Twitter.
Beliau yang lebih dikenali sebagai Zunar memberitahu wartawan Free Malaysia Today(FMT) bahawa akan ditahan di Ibu Pejabat Daerah (IPD) Polis Dang Wangi dan percaya akan tidur di lokap pada malam ini.
“Saya didatangi empat orang polis diketuai oleh seorang anggota berpangkat tiga paku bernama Muniandi.
“Mereka berpakaian preman kecuali seorang anggota polis berpangkat ‘tiga paku’ yang berpakaian ‘highlight’,”ujarnya.
Ketika dihubungi FMT pada lewat petang semalam, Zunar mengakui kesemua anggota polis berada di pintu pagar luar rumahnya yang terletak di Pantai Dalam.
“Anggota polis itu memberitahu bahawa penahanan ini dilakukan atas arahan orang atasan kerana tweet di Twitter,” ujarnya lagi.
Penahan itu dipercayai susulan arahan Ketua Polis Negara, Tan Sri Khalid Abu Bakar kepada pihak Polis Diraja Malaysia (PDRM) untuk menyiasat Zunar dan juga dua orang lagi Ahli Parlimen yang lain, iaitu Ahli Parlimen Pandang, Rafizi Ramli dan juga Ahli Parlimen Taiping, Nga Kor Ming
Khalid melalui laman Twitter berkata polis perlu menyiasat segera kenyataan Zunar di laman berkenaan.
Terdahulu, kartunis itu dalam tulisannya di Twitter menyebut: “Barua berjubah hitam bangga jatuhkan hukuman. Habuan dari tuan politik pasti lumayan.”
Zaid slams PAS for ditching Anwar
Zaid Ibrahim goes online to show his disappointment in PAS for not bothering to lend moral support to Anwar in his time of need.
FMT
KUALA LUMPUR: Former law minister Zaid Ibrahim took to Twitter and Facebook today to express his disappointment in PAS, noting that only a few of its members bothered to show up to lend moral support to Anwar Ibrahim as he readied himself for the verdict of the Sodomy II appeal.
In his first tweet on the subject, Zaid said: “I see almost no presence of PAS supporters except Mat Sabu and Dr Zulkifli. Is this what Islamic friendship (is) all about?”
After the guilty verdict was read and sentencing of five years’ imprisonment announced, Zaid took to Twitter again, saying: “Don’t worry Anwar, your Islamist friends will not help you but others in the country will.”
“Don’t worry Anwar there are secular friends who are more honourable and will help the cause,” Zaid continued, taking a direct jab at PAS for abandoning their political comrade during his time of need.
Much earlier, upon arriving at court and sensing that the verdict of guilty was highly likely, Zaid had tweeted: “Building impressive from outside in Putrajaya. Toilet stinks, however, just like the country.”
In a blog posting yesterday, Zaid had mocked the government for relentlessly pursuing Anwar on charges of sodomy, something that had taken up 17 years, noting that Anwar has been the only individual in the entire country hauled up for allegedly being a homosexual.
He also said, “Even if he is imprisoned, his friends in the Pakatan as well as those outside the political framework will collectively shoulder the task of rebuilding our now tattered country,” a statement he may feel differently about today with the apparent disinterest shown by PAS.
KUALA LUMPUR: Former law minister Zaid Ibrahim took to Twitter and Facebook today to express his disappointment in PAS, noting that only a few of its members bothered to show up to lend moral support to Anwar Ibrahim as he readied himself for the verdict of the Sodomy II appeal.
In his first tweet on the subject, Zaid said: “I see almost no presence of PAS supporters except Mat Sabu and Dr Zulkifli. Is this what Islamic friendship (is) all about?”
After the guilty verdict was read and sentencing of five years’ imprisonment announced, Zaid took to Twitter again, saying: “Don’t worry Anwar, your Islamist friends will not help you but others in the country will.”
Much earlier, upon arriving at court and sensing that the verdict of guilty was highly likely, Zaid had tweeted: “Building impressive from outside in Putrajaya. Toilet stinks, however, just like the country.”
In a blog posting yesterday, Zaid had mocked the government for relentlessly pursuing Anwar on charges of sodomy, something that had taken up 17 years, noting that Anwar has been the only individual in the entire country hauled up for allegedly being a homosexual.
He also said, “Even if he is imprisoned, his friends in the Pakatan as well as those outside the political framework will collectively shoulder the task of rebuilding our now tattered country,” a statement he may feel differently about today with the apparent disinterest shown by PAS.
M’sia deports Nepalese who killed 15 rhinos
He entered Malaysia using different documents and is the most wanted fugitive rhino poacher in Nepal.
FMT
PETALING JAYA: A Nepalese who has killed 15 rhinos and is placed on the Interpol Red Notice has been deported to his country after being arrested by police here.
The Star reported that Rajkumar Praja, 31, who had entered Malaysia using different documents nine days ago, is the most wanted fugitive rhino poacher in Nepal.
National Central Bureau/Interpol assistant director Supt Gan Thek Guan told the daily that Rajkumar was deported to Nepal on Sunday escorted by the country’s officers.
He confirmed that Rajkumar’s poaching was done in Nepal and not in Malaysia.
Interpol will reveal more information on its website in a matter of days.
In 2013, Nepal placed Rajkumar on the Interpol Red Notice – or international wanted persons alert.
He had been sentenced to 15 years’ jail for poaching rhinos at the Chitwan National Park in central Nepal.
A report by Nepalese daily newspaper Kantipur said Rajkumar has been on the run since 2013, and was said to have killed 15 rhinos.
The park is believed to house most of the country’s 500-odd Indian rhinos, also known as the greater one-horned rhinoceros.
The Indian rhinoceros, classified as a “vulnerable” animal under the global IUCN Red List, can also be found in the northern parts of Bangladesh, India and Pakistan.
WWF-Malaysia (World Wildlife Fund) executive director Dr Dionysus Sharma said Nepal had a good track record in recent years making sure that there was no poaching there.
“What may happen is that poachers may look elsewhere if they still want to ply their trade,” Dr Dionysus said.
FMT
PETALING JAYA: A Nepalese who has killed 15 rhinos and is placed on the Interpol Red Notice has been deported to his country after being arrested by police here.
The Star reported that Rajkumar Praja, 31, who had entered Malaysia using different documents nine days ago, is the most wanted fugitive rhino poacher in Nepal.
National Central Bureau/Interpol assistant director Supt Gan Thek Guan told the daily that Rajkumar was deported to Nepal on Sunday escorted by the country’s officers.
He confirmed that Rajkumar’s poaching was done in Nepal and not in Malaysia.
Interpol will reveal more information on its website in a matter of days.
In 2013, Nepal placed Rajkumar on the Interpol Red Notice – or international wanted persons alert.
He had been sentenced to 15 years’ jail for poaching rhinos at the Chitwan National Park in central Nepal.
A report by Nepalese daily newspaper Kantipur said Rajkumar has been on the run since 2013, and was said to have killed 15 rhinos.
The park is believed to house most of the country’s 500-odd Indian rhinos, also known as the greater one-horned rhinoceros.
The Indian rhinoceros, classified as a “vulnerable” animal under the global IUCN Red List, can also be found in the northern parts of Bangladesh, India and Pakistan.
WWF-Malaysia (World Wildlife Fund) executive director Dr Dionysus Sharma said Nepal had a good track record in recent years making sure that there was no poaching there.
“What may happen is that poachers may look elsewhere if they still want to ply their trade,” Dr Dionysus said.
Can Najib sleep well now that Anwar’s gone?
There's no sign that Anwar's conviction will return support for BN, says blogger Shahbudin.
FMT
PETALING JAYA: Najib Abdul Razak may think he has ended Anwar Ibrahim’s career as an active politician, but that doesn’t mean the Prime Minister can sleep any easier, says Shahbudin Husin, an analyst of Umno politics.
For one, Shabudin says in his latest blog posting, a renewed wave of sympathy for Anwar might translate into greater support for Pakatan Rakyat.
Reporting on the talk around town, he says there is sadness for Anwar and his family and disappointment over the Federal Court decision at discussions in coffee shops and office canteens, including in government offices and even a branch of CIMB, a bank headed by one of Najib’s brothers.
“The outpouring of sadness and sympathy for Anwar and his family can be heard nearly everywhere,” he writes. “Many blame Najib, Umno and the government. Indeed, there’s no sign that Anwar’s imprisonment will return the people’s support for them.”
He posed a series of questions, some of which are rhetorical.
“Will the support of the people, especially the younger generation, return massively to Barisan Nasional? Or will Anwar’s conviction result in an even braver uprising and rejection of BN?
“What will happen to Pakatan Rakyat and PKR? Will there be a break-up or a strengthening of the coalition?
“Will Anwar’s prediction that his imprisonment will result in an increase in popular votes for the opposition – from 52% to 60% – come true?
“More important than all that, will former prime minister Mahathir Mohamad return his support to Najib or attack him more fiercely? If he gives back his support, would that mean that Mahathir would be willing to forget about 1MDB and BR1M, which were the reasons he cited for opposing Najib?
“If Mahathir continues with his attack, what will eventually happen to Najib? Who will save him? Will he be able to fight back with the support of his Cabinet?
“Or will it now be easier to oust Najib?”
Shahbudin says those are only some of the questions that have cropped up with Anwar’s conviction.
He says the result of the upcoming by-election in Permatang Pauh will be an indicator of how the 14th general election will go.
FMTPETALING JAYA: Najib Abdul Razak may think he has ended Anwar Ibrahim’s career as an active politician, but that doesn’t mean the Prime Minister can sleep any easier, says Shahbudin Husin, an analyst of Umno politics.
For one, Shabudin says in his latest blog posting, a renewed wave of sympathy for Anwar might translate into greater support for Pakatan Rakyat.
Reporting on the talk around town, he says there is sadness for Anwar and his family and disappointment over the Federal Court decision at discussions in coffee shops and office canteens, including in government offices and even a branch of CIMB, a bank headed by one of Najib’s brothers.
“The outpouring of sadness and sympathy for Anwar and his family can be heard nearly everywhere,” he writes. “Many blame Najib, Umno and the government. Indeed, there’s no sign that Anwar’s imprisonment will return the people’s support for them.”
He posed a series of questions, some of which are rhetorical.
“Will the support of the people, especially the younger generation, return massively to Barisan Nasional? Or will Anwar’s conviction result in an even braver uprising and rejection of BN?
“What will happen to Pakatan Rakyat and PKR? Will there be a break-up or a strengthening of the coalition?
“Will Anwar’s prediction that his imprisonment will result in an increase in popular votes for the opposition – from 52% to 60% – come true?
“More important than all that, will former prime minister Mahathir Mohamad return his support to Najib or attack him more fiercely? If he gives back his support, would that mean that Mahathir would be willing to forget about 1MDB and BR1M, which were the reasons he cited for opposing Najib?
“If Mahathir continues with his attack, what will eventually happen to Najib? Who will save him? Will he be able to fight back with the support of his Cabinet?
“Or will it now be easier to oust Najib?”
Shahbudin says those are only some of the questions that have cropped up with Anwar’s conviction.
He says the result of the upcoming by-election in Permatang Pauh will be an indicator of how the 14th general election will go.
Statement by Anwar Ibrahim upon the judgement of the Federal Court on 10th February 2015.
I maintain my innocence of this foul charge – this incident never happened.
This is complete fabrication- coming from a political conspiracy to stop my political career.
You have not given proper consideration to the case presented by my counsel from day one – that this incident never happened at all.
I can go on and on but I see from your statement today that it will be fruitless – it appears as i have been condemned again as I was in the court of appeal. Only here we went through a facade of an 8 day hearing!
It is not a coincidence how the PM was able to release a full written statement on your decision barely minutes after you handed your judgment today, even before sentencing.
In bowing to the dictates of the political masters, you have become partners in crime for the murder of judicial independence and integrity. You have sold your souls to the devil, bartering your conscience for material gain and comfort and security of office.
You had the best opportunity to redeem yourselves – to right the wrongs of the past and put the judiciary on a clean slate and carve your names for posterity as true defenders of justice.
But instead you chose to remain on the dark side and drown your morals and your scruples in a sea of falsehood and subterfuge. Know you not that you are now wallowing in filth and foulness and the stench of your injustice will permeate through every nook and cranny of this so-called Palace of Justice and I do pity you all.
Yes, you have passed judgement on me – and I will, again for the third time, walk into prison but rest assured my head will be held high. The light shines on me.
But the shame is on you for you will be judged by history as the great cowards of humanity. Sitting on that high horse of judicial power, you have stooped so low to become the underlings of the political masters.
Students of law and professors of jurisprudence will scrutinise your
judgments and as they dissect your reasoning and your decision, your credibility and integrity will be torn to tatters. And you will be exposed as the fraudsters who don the robe of judicial power only to pervert the course of justice.
Do not forget that, as all of us will have to, you too will have to answer to your Maker. You will have to answer why you turned your backs on the principles that you had so solemnly sworn to uphold.
People who come into your court have to bow their heads and address you as ‘My Lords’ but don’t you know that you too will have to answer to your Lord one day? By then you will need more than bowing and prostration to justify why you wilfully transgressed Allah’s command as ordained in Surah an-Nisaa, verse 58:
“Indeed, Allah commands you to render trusts to whom they are due and when you judge between people, judge with justice. How excellent is that which Allah instructs you. Indeed, Allah is ever Hearing and Seeing.”
Going to jail, i consider a sacrifice i make for the people of this country.
I have fought most of my life on behalf of the people of this country – for the people I am willing to go to jail or face any other consequence.
My struggle will continue, wherever I am sent and whatever is done to me.
To my friends and fellow Malaysians let me thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the support you have given me. And Allah is my witness. I pledge and I will not be silenced, I will fight on for freedom and justice and I will never surrender!
ANWAR IBRAHIM
10 FEBRUARY 2015
PM urged to get all states to emulate Negri Sembilan’s ‘divorce first, then convert’ law
The Sun Daily by P. Chandra Sagaran, Haikal Jalil and Vathani Panirchellvum
PETALING
JAYA: Prime Minister Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Abdul Razak has
been urged to get all states to emulate the Negri Sembilan state
government's "divorce first, then convert" proposed law.
The
proposal is widely seen as an initiative to prevent serious problems,
such as those faced by Hindu women M. Indira Ghandi and S. Deepa whose
husbands converted themselves and their children without their
knowledge, from happening to others.
A
number of non-governmental organisations such as the Bar Council and
the Joint Action Group for Gender Equality and Women's Aid Organisation
have voiced full support for the "divorce first, then convert" law to be
adopted nationwide.
In
2009, Indira's ex-husband K. Pathmanathan, who later became Mohamad
Riduan Abdullah, had converted the couple's three children without her
knowledge and then obtained a custody order for the children from the
Syariah Court.
Indira
is still waiting for her daughter Prasana Diksa to be returned to her
despite her former husband being ordered to do so by the Ipoh High
Court.
Deepa's
case is also in the courts after her Muslim convert husband Izwan
Abdullah (formerly N. Viran) was granted a stay against an order that he
return his son Mithran to her.
Last
Thursday, the Negri Sembilan government had announced that if a
non-Muslim spouse wants to convert to Islam, the spouse must settle his
or her divorce first before the conversion.
Ipoh
Barat MP M. Kulasegaran said Najib should advise states to enact a
similar "divorce first, then convert" law, saying Negri Sembilan Mentri
Besar Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan had taken the initiative to protect the
sanctity of Islam and to prevent families from going through such
suffering.
"The
challenge will be for other states to implement similar proposals," he
said, in calling on Najib to get the law adopted nationwide.
Meanwhile,
the Bar council said the Negri Sembilan decision is in the right
direction to ensure families settle their issues before converting to
Islam.
Its
Human Rights Committee co-chairman Andrew Khoo told theSun the Bar
Council is looking forward to the law being implemented in all states to
ensure religion and the law are not misused.
In
supporting the call, Joint Action Group for Gender Equality hoped the
new set of regulations will include a provision to ensure that any
conversion of a minor must have the informed consent of both parents in
accordance with Section 5 of the Guardianship of Infants Act 1961, which
states that parents have equal guardianship rights.
"It
is a bold and right move by Negri Sembilan," said WAO, adding that the
new proposal came up partially due to the struggles of women whose
spouses misused the law in the custody battles.
However,
in SHAH ALAM, Selangor Mentri Besar Mohamed Azmin Ali said the state
government will not be following Negri Sembilan in introducing the new
provisions for now.
"That
was a proposal by Negri Sembilan and we do not have any proposal for
such amendments at the moment. Such a regulation needs deliberation and
discussion with all parties," added Azmin after officiating at the
handing-over of letters of appointment to Selangor village chiefs at the
State Secretariat building here.
Anwar Sent To Sungai Buloh Prison
KUALA
LUMPUR, Feb 10 (Bernama) -- Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who failed in his
final appeal today after the Federal Court found him guilty of
sodomising a former aide, was taken to the Sungai Buloh prison this
afternoon.The opposition leader is believed to have been brought to the prison in a Nissan X-Trail sports uitlity vehicle (SUV).
The SUV, which was escorted by eight other vehicles, was seen entering the prison compound after leaving the Federal Court at about 3pm.
Sungai Buloh police chief Supt Junaidi Bujang when contacted, confirmed that Anwar was rought to the prison at 3.49pm today.
It was a calm atmosphere outside the prison compound, with very few individuals, believed to be Anwar's supporters taking the opportunity to take pictures of the vehicle carrying the PKR advisor.
Anwar's arrival was tightly guarded by about 60 officers and personnel of the Prisons Department and police.
At about 5.40 pm, Anwar's wife, Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail was seen arriving at the Sungai Buloh Prison to hand over a bag believed to contain Anwar's personal effects.
Also seen at the prison compound was Subang MP R. Sivarasa who when approached by reporters, said Anwar would not be allowed to receive visitors today.
"I will meet Anwar tomorrow morning as the visiting time has yet to be determined," he said.
The Federal Court today ruled that Anwar, who is also Permatang Pauh MP, had failed in his final appeal against his conviction of sodomising his personal assistant Mohd Saiful Bukhari Azlan and upheldd the five-year jail sentence imposed by the Appeals Court when convicting him.
The verdict was delivered by Chief Justice Tun Arifin Zakaria who headed a panel of five judges in hearing his appeal against the Appeals Court's decision.
Anwar GUILTY! 5-year jail sentence upheld
Reporting by Hafiz Yatim, Ram Anand, Kow Gah Chie, Zulaikha Zulkifli, Lim Huey Teng and Yap Jia Hee.
3PM: Anwar was brought out of the Palace of Justice to Sungai Buloh prison in an unmarked vehicle which was part of a convoy of seven vehicles with heavily tinted windows.
Nevertheless supporters wave at the cars and trying to get a glimpse of him.
The crowd later leave the area, followed by the FRU personnel.
2.50PM: DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng says his party is "devastated" by the decision.
"Let us turn this sorrow to a strength for us to continue our fight for freedom, justice, democracy and truth. We must make Anwar's incarceration worthwhile.
"It is worth reflecting how the PMO manage to prepare a statement minutes after the verdict before sentencing. This is something that the people should question," he tells Malaysiakini.
2.45PM: Mohd Saiful Bukhari Azlan pens a reaction on his blog. He writes of his vindication and that the court has deemed his testimony to be "credible".
2.43PM: The FRU has issued a second warning, but the crowd refuses to disperse.
2.40PM: Anwar's request that he serve his sentence in the Sungai Buloh prison and not the Kajang prison has been granted, according to his laywer Gobind Singh.
2.10PM: The atmosphere outside the Palace of Justice in Putarajaya is tense as thousands of Anwar's supporters denouncing the decision.
The riot police bell has been rung, prompting the armoured police personnel to take their places.
Meanwhile, Anwar is still in court with his lawyer Gopal. Anwar is seen holding on to his grandchildren.
2PM: Shouts of 'Reformasi' and 'Allahuakbar' ring out as the judges exit the courtroom. Anwar hugs his supporters.
1.57PM: Justice Arifin says the five-year jail sentence imposed by the Court of Appeal will not be enhanced.
1.55PM: Court resumes.
1.45PM: Several FRU vehicles are at the scene.
1.38PM: The judges chose to leave the bench when Anwar raised the issue of political conspiracy, and criticised them for "bowing to their political masters".
"You could have carved your names. But in bowing to the dictates of your political masters, you have become partners in the murder of the judiciary. You chose to remain on the dark side," he adds, prompting Justice Arifin to tell him to stop.
When Anwar refused, the judges left.
However, the opposition leader continues speaking in a loud tone, vowing that he will continue to fight for justice and freedom. "I will not surrender."
1.35PM: Following his request, Anwar is allowed to address the court. He says that he will accept the decision and remain patient.
“I maintain my innocence and that it is a political conspiracy to stop me,” he adds.
Anwar also refers to the PMO statement, which was issued before sentencing.
1.34PM: Shafee says a five-year sentence will be a serious error with regard to his previous conviction. He wants a sentence above six years.
1.33PM: Questioning what is a “manifestly adequate” sentence, Shafee argues that five years is “manifestly inadequate”.
1.28PM: Shafee says Anwar has committed a serious offence. Though agreeing with Gopal that Anwar has contributed to the nation, he, however, says, “The higher the man, the higher the crime is”. He adds that Anwar has not shown repentance.
1.22PM: Shafee says the maximum sentence is 20 years but whipping is not relevant.
1.18PM: Some 1,000 Anwar supporters have now gathered at the back entrance, chanting ‘Reformasi’ and ‘Hidup Anwar’.
1.17PM: Gopal says there are no good reasons in enhancing the sentence based on the facts of the case.
1.14PM: Anwar, Gopal points out, was with the government of this country and made significant contributions to democratic principles with his role in the opposition. He says the court must consider these special facts.
1.12PM: Gopal Sri Ram addresses the court on sentencing, arguing that one cannot escape the personality of Anwar as he is no ordinary individual.
1.08PM: Court in session with Justice Arifin presiding.
1.04PM: Anwar hugs his daughter Nurul Izzah and Wan Azizah as the two struggle to fight back tears. Emotions are running high as Anwar embraces other family members.
12.58PM Human Rights Watch condemns the court ruling, calling it a travesty of justice.
"Najib’s government has persisted in its politically motivated prosecution of opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim at the expense of democratic freedoms and the rights to non-discrimination and privacy for all Malaysians.
“Allowing this travesty of justice to stand will further undermine respect for rights and democracy in Malaysia,” says its deputy Asia director Phil Robertson.
12.57PM: Court registrar says they are about to begin.
12.52PM: Court reporters told to take their seats while Anwar's supporters make a beeline to hug him.
12.45PM: Anwar tells his grandchildren to concentrate on their studies, while an ashen-faced Wan Azizah says the family must remain strong.
12.40PM: Supporters are being asked to gather at the rear entrance of the Palace of Justice in anticipation of Anwar being taken to jail.
PKR supreme council member Fariz Musa says this is to allow supporters to see Anwar for the last time.
12.35PM: Minutes after the verdict is announced, the Prime Minister's Department issues a press statement, which reads:
"The judges will have reached their verdict only after considering all the evidence in a balanced and objective manner. Malaysia has an independent judiciary, and there have been many rulings against senior government figures.
"The police report against Anwar Ibrahim was brought by a private individual - Anwar's employee and personal assistant - not by the government. As the victim of a serious sexual assault, he had every right to have his case heard in court.
"In this case, exhaustive and comprehensive due process has been followed over many years. That process is now complete, and we call on all parties involved to respect the legal process and the judgment".
12.32PM: A distraught looking PAS deputy president Mohamad Sabu refuses to entertain questions from journalists.
12.30PM: Tears flow in the Palace of Justice as Anwar's supporters' come to terms with the verdict. The chatter in the lobby has stopped and many opposition MPs in attendance are silent.
"I am very disappointed," said a teary-eyed Maria Chin Abdullah, the head of Bersih.
PAS central committee member Dr Hatta Ramli was spotted tearing up at one corner of the lobby.
But a stoic Anwar is seen hugging Pakatan Rakyat leaders such as Mohamad Sabu, Mahfuz Omar and Dr Xavier Jeyakumar before talking to his lawyers.
12.10PM: Defence seeks an hour-long adjourment before sentencing.
12.05PM: After reading for two hours, Justice Arifin arrives at the guilty verdict.
The judge says there is overwhelming evidence that Saiful was sodomised by the accused because there is substantial scientific and corroborative evidence.
12.00PM: Based on the facts of the case, Justice Arifin holds that Dr Mohd Osman Abdul Hamid from Pusrawi Hospital was not telling the truth when claiming in his medical report that plastic objects were inserted into Saiful's anus.
The judge says the HKL doctors did not draw similar conclusions.
11.55AM: Justice Arifin says Anwar did not dispute that he was in the condominium and that Saiful was also there.
"We hold there is no merit in the complaint of political conspiracy. A mere denial (from Anwar) does not mean it could be accepted. A political conspiracy allegation remains unsubstantiated," he adds.
11.52AM: Justice Arifin touches on the allegation that Saiful met Najib, who was then deputy prime minister, and the latter’s special officer Khairul Anas.
11.50AM: Justice Arifin focuses on other defence witnesses, including Anwar’s former aide Najwan Halimi’s testimony that he was surprised to see Saiful, known to be a BN sympathiser, working for the opposition leader.
11.45AM: As the judgments unfolds, Twitter is abuzz that the opposition leader may be found guilty.
"Moving towards conviction," wrote PKR legal bureau chief Latheefa Koya.
"Looks like may be guilty verdict based on what's reported so far. Malaysia to be in spotlight for all the wrong reasons again," adds Jakarta-based journalist Beh Lih Yih in a Twitter posting.
"Looks very grim," tweeted Bayan Baru MP Sim Tze Tzin.
11.43AM: Justice Arifin now shifts to Anwar’s alibi. “Anwar alleged that the samples had been tampered with and blamed the media for making prejudicial statements. He also criticised the High Court ruling that Saiful was a truthful witness,” he says. He then repeats Anwar’s conspiracy claim.
11.40AM: Justice Arifin continues. He says there is nothing "inferiorly fallible" in the chemists’ evidence.
11.35AM: There is an interruption due to problems with the microphone.
11.31AM: As Justice Arifin continues to read the judgment, one of Anwar’s children breaks into tears. All his six children are present in court.
11.30AM: Justice Arifin also notes how the chemist testified that it is consistent with the complainant’s allegation that he was sodomised.
11.28AM: Justice Arifin also states that the chemists found semen samples and sperm heads.
“The finding of sperm heads after two days is not unusual,” he adds.
11.27AM: At ths juncture, Anwar turns to look at Wan Azizah.
11.26AM: The top judge rules that the samples are not contaminated.
11.25AM: Justice Arifin rules that there is no break in custody of the samples and that DSP Jude Pereira, the investigating officer, was careful in leaving the cut plastic bag hanging.
11.08AM: Justice Arifin also rules that the items from the lock-up were legally obtained, and terms it as “independent evidence”.
“We (the panel) are of the view that conducting a trial-within-trial (on the admissibility of evidence from the detention cell) was unnecessary,” he says.
11.05AM: As for the lock-up evidence, the top judge concludes that Anwar had used the items as the cell was vacant before him.
11.03AM: Justice Arifin moves to the evidence from chemists Dr Seah Lay Hong and Nor Aidora Saedon as well as how the trial judge found there was ample corroboration evidence. He says a prima facie case was established and the Court of Appeal agreed.
“Saiful is not an accomplice and there is enough corroborative evidence to support his testimony,” he adds.
11AM: The top judge states that the Evidence Act does not require corroboration. (The High Court had ruled that the chemists’ evidence did not corroborate with Saiful’s testimony). He says the evidence of the complainant can be relied upon without corroboration.
10.50AM: Justice Arifin also raised the infamous Brioni suit and as for the carpet seized, he states that it is not critical evidence.
10.46AM: On Saiful, Justice Arifin says his minute details must be borne in mind and that the complainant had stuck to his testimony despite a thorough cross examination. Due to this, Justice ArIfin says the Court of Appeal ruled that Saiful’s evidence was acceptable.
10.45AM: Justice Arifin reads Anwar’s defence questioning Saiful’s conduct of bringing the KY jelly and the Pusrawi doctor claiming that a plastic object had been inserted into his anus. The chief justice notes that Saiful had alleged there were previous sexual encounters, and the defence had countered by asking why he did not flee.
10.43AM: The judge is now focusing on the issue of Saiful’s credibility.
10.42AM: Justice Arifin says the experts who testified for the defence cast aspersion on the condition of the samples, hence the KL High Court was of the opinion that there was reasonable doubt concerning the samples.
10.39AM: The judge is now reading the testimonies of defence witnesses Prof David Wells and Prof Brian Mcdonalds. He says spinal surgeon Dr Thomas Hoogland was of the opinion that Anwar cannot perform such sexual acts because of his back problem.
10.37AM: Justice Arifin points out that Anwar gave his statement from the dock where he alleged a conspiracy by Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak and questioned Saiful’s conduct.
10.33AM: Justice Arifin notes how Anwar was detained and brought with him a towel, toothbrush and mineral water bottle. These items were retrieved by the police the following day and the samples were handed over to the Kuala Lumpur police headquarters.
10.27AM: After disclosing how Saiful was referred to Hospital Kuala Lumpur, where samples were taken, Justice Arifin says the chemist found sperm cells from the higher and lower rectal swabs. He also notes that the doctor’s initial findings showed there were no signs of penetration.
10.20AM: Justice Arifin recounts the incident, from Saiful arriving at the condominium and how a lubricant was used as well as his anus being penetrated. He notes how Saiful resigned after the incident and was accompanied by his uncle to Hospital Pusrawi.
10.17AM: Chief Justice Arifin says consent is not an ingredient of the offence, recalls how Saiful worked as a volunteer and served as Anwar’s assistant.
10.12AM: Chief Justice Arifin is reading the judgment, starting with the background of the case and the charge against Anwar.
10.08AM: Court is now in session with Chief Justice Arifin leading the five-member bench. Anwar enters and bows. He also bows to those seated in the public gallery.
10AM: There are about 200 supporters of Saiful armed with banners and are chanting slogans demanding for Anwar's incarceration.
Their leader identified himself as Saiful Suhaimi Adnan, or Suhaimi Taliban, said that his group arrived late because they were volunteers and were not paid.
"They (Anwar supporters) appeared as early as 7am because they were paid and came on busses.
"We are volunteers. Not paid!" he told reporters.
9.47AM: Court orderlies are seen preparing the documents for the judges. The court is expected to be in session soon.
Wan Azizah's father Wan Ismail Wan Mahmood walks in and sits next to his daughter.
9.45AM: One of Saiful’s so-called supporters claims that he was paid "duit minyak" (petrol money) to come to court.
Identifying himself only as Syafiq, he tells Malaysiakini that he and his friends rode to the Palace of Justice from Puchong on motorcycles.
"I just followed the rest," he adds
9.40AM: Some 50 supporters of Mohd Saiful Bukhari Azlan are also present, armed with placards and banners.
One of the banners reads, "Liwat tetap liwat", mocking PKR and Anwar’s often used slogan of "Lawan tetap lawan".
Suhaimi Adnan, who is heading the group, says they were not paid to come to court.
"We came to prove that Saiful is not alone," he adds as the group chants 'Tangkap Anwar' (Arrest Anwar) and 'Hukum Peliwat' (Punish the sodomite).
9.35AM: Wan Azizah tells reporters inside the courtroom that the judges not only have to answer to the people but to their conscience and God.
"Judgement has to be based on facts. I'm confident that Anwar is innocent and should be released"
"Let me not have a reason to question the judiciary," she adds.
9.18AM: Anwar tells reporters that he is anxious like them. "I will continuously pray," he adds with a smile.
He then has a word with former Bersih co-chairperson Ambiga Sreenavasan.
9.15AM: About 1,000 supporters are now gathering within the vicinity of the court complex.
9.11AM: National laureate A Samad Said is also in the public gallery.
Anwar is having a word with his lawyers Sivarasa, Latheefa and Eric. Whereas, Shafee's aides are spotted carrying boxes of documents.
9.08AM: Court staff remind those inside the courtroom to wear their respective passes, failing which, they will be asked to leave.
Also in court are Anwar’s daughters, including Nurul Izzah, who brought her son along.
9.02AM: Anwar arrives at court accompanied by his wife PKR president Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail and family. They are mobbed by media photographers.
Accompanying him are DAP supremo Lim Kit Siang and Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng.
According to a Channel News Asia tweet, Anwar says he had a good night's sleep and is optimistic that the court will rule in his favour.
8.55AM: Court security are once again checking the passes of those in court. Those with passes restricting them only to the lobby are ushered out.
8.57AM: Chief prosecutor Shafee enters the court with his legal team.
8.49AM: A 74-year-old environmental activist has come all the way from Kuantan, and demands to see Mohd Saiful Bukhari Azlan.
“Where is Saiful?” asks Tow Ah Mei.
“I want to examine him. Since he complained of being sodomised, might as well let the people check him,” she thunders.
8.40AM: Former Federal Court judge and Anwar's lead defence counsel Gopal Sri Ram is now in the court room.
He is accompanied by defence counsels Sangeet Kaur and Eric Paulsen.
The prosecution team includes DPP Mohd Hanafiah Zakaria, who is deputy head of the prosecution division of the Attorney-General Chambers and Saiful's lawyer Zamri Idrus.
Human Rights Watch asia division deputy director Phil Robertson is also in court.
8.35am: An Anwar supporter faints following an epileptic bout. His friends rush to his aid and the man appears to return to normal some 15 minutes later.
8.20AM: Reporters, international observers, MPs and the public are allowed to enter the courtroom.
Among those in the public gallery are Shah Alam MP Khalid Samad and PAS central committee member Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad.
Reporters are seated on the left side of the courtroom, while the public and MPs are seated in the middle and on the right.
Anwar's family is yet to be seen.
8.15AM: A Muslim preacher delivers a speech near Anwar's supporters, denouncing the Pakatan Rakyat symbol as a representation of Satanism and says that democracy has no place in Islam.
"If you don't believe in God, please leave the country. Which religion condones homosexuality?" he says.
8.10AM: Security is tight. International observers are lining up and lawyers have to show their case files in order to be granted entry into the premises.
Other than police in riot gear, mounted police units are also patrolling the vicinity.
Meanwhile, some 200 people held a short march, led by PKR Youth chief Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad.
8.05AM: Anwar's supporters have started streaming into the Sultan Zainal Abidin mosque since 6am. Thirty buses, believed to be used to ferry supporters, were spotted nearby.
Security at the Palace of Justice is extremely tight with plenty of police cordons. The entire stretch of road outside the building is closed to traffic and police in riot gear are nearby.
The only case that will be heard in Federal Court 1 is Anwar's appeal. The court is normally used when Chief Justice Arifin is presiding.
8AM: All eyes will be on the five-member Federal Court bench that will decide on whether Anwar Ibrahim's appeal against the conviction and sentence for sodomy will be upheld.
Led by Chief Justice Arifin Zakaria, the panel is expected to take an hour to deliver its verdict beginning at 9am.
It is unknown as to who among the five-member panel will write and read the judgment.
It also remains uncertain whether the decision will be unanimous or if there will be any dissenting judgment similar to the Federal Court decision in 2004 which acquitted Anwar.
Should the Federal Court maintain the conviction, then the panel will listen to submissions from Shafee Abdullah, the private lawyer who has been appointed by the government to lead the prosecution.
The submissions are necessary because the prosecution made a cross-appeal to increase the five-year jail sentence handed to Anwar, 67, by the Court of Appeal.
Anwar is staring at a maximum jail sentence of 20 years.
After Shafee's submission, Anwar's defence team, led by former Federal Court judge Gopal Sri Ram, will submit their replies. Shafee will then make one final replay.
The defence and prosecution team have already been asked to prepare written submissions, in case the conviction is upheld. Some observers believe this is a bad omen.
Should Anwar be found guilty, the apex court, after hearing the submissions, will decide on sentencing and bring an end to a case that has dragged on for seven years, involving 27 prosecution and eight defence witnesses.
Follow Malaysiakini full coverage of Federal Court verdict here.
3PM: Anwar was brought out of the Palace of Justice to Sungai Buloh prison in an unmarked vehicle which was part of a convoy of seven vehicles with heavily tinted windows.
Nevertheless supporters wave at the cars and trying to get a glimpse of him.
The crowd later leave the area, followed by the FRU personnel.
"Let us turn this sorrow to a strength for us to continue our fight for freedom, justice, democracy and truth. We must make Anwar's incarceration worthwhile.
"It is worth reflecting how the PMO manage to prepare a statement minutes after the verdict before sentencing. This is something that the people should question," he tells Malaysiakini.
2.45PM: Mohd Saiful Bukhari Azlan pens a reaction on his blog. He writes of his vindication and that the court has deemed his testimony to be "credible".
2.43PM: The FRU has issued a second warning, but the crowd refuses to disperse.
2.40PM: Anwar's request that he serve his sentence in the Sungai Buloh prison and not the Kajang prison has been granted, according to his laywer Gobind Singh.
2.10PM: The atmosphere outside the Palace of Justice in Putarajaya is tense as thousands of Anwar's supporters denouncing the decision.
The riot police bell has been rung, prompting the armoured police personnel to take their places.
Meanwhile, Anwar is still in court with his lawyer Gopal. Anwar is seen holding on to his grandchildren.
2PM: Shouts of 'Reformasi' and 'Allahuakbar' ring out as the judges exit the courtroom. Anwar hugs his supporters.
1.57PM: Justice Arifin says the five-year jail sentence imposed by the Court of Appeal will not be enhanced.
1.55PM: Court resumes.
1.45PM: Several FRU vehicles are at the scene.
1.38PM: The judges chose to leave the bench when Anwar raised the issue of political conspiracy, and criticised them for "bowing to their political masters".
"You could have carved your names. But in bowing to the dictates of your political masters, you have become partners in the murder of the judiciary. You chose to remain on the dark side," he adds, prompting Justice Arifin to tell him to stop.
When Anwar refused, the judges left.
However, the opposition leader continues speaking in a loud tone, vowing that he will continue to fight for justice and freedom. "I will not surrender."
1.35PM: Following his request, Anwar is allowed to address the court. He says that he will accept the decision and remain patient.
“I maintain my innocence and that it is a political conspiracy to stop me,” he adds.
Anwar also refers to the PMO statement, which was issued before sentencing.
1.34PM: Shafee says a five-year sentence will be a serious error with regard to his previous conviction. He wants a sentence above six years.
1.33PM: Questioning what is a “manifestly adequate” sentence, Shafee argues that five years is “manifestly inadequate”.
1.28PM: Shafee says Anwar has committed a serious offence. Though agreeing with Gopal that Anwar has contributed to the nation, he, however, says, “The higher the man, the higher the crime is”. He adds that Anwar has not shown repentance.
1.22PM: Shafee says the maximum sentence is 20 years but whipping is not relevant.
1.18PM: Some 1,000 Anwar supporters have now gathered at the back entrance, chanting ‘Reformasi’ and ‘Hidup Anwar’.
1.17PM: Gopal says there are no good reasons in enhancing the sentence based on the facts of the case.
1.14PM: Anwar, Gopal points out, was with the government of this country and made significant contributions to democratic principles with his role in the opposition. He says the court must consider these special facts.
1.12PM: Gopal Sri Ram addresses the court on sentencing, arguing that one cannot escape the personality of Anwar as he is no ordinary individual.
1.08PM: Court in session with Justice Arifin presiding.
1.04PM: Anwar hugs his daughter Nurul Izzah and Wan Azizah as the two struggle to fight back tears. Emotions are running high as Anwar embraces other family members.
12.58PM Human Rights Watch condemns the court ruling, calling it a travesty of justice.
"Najib’s government has persisted in its politically motivated prosecution of opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim at the expense of democratic freedoms and the rights to non-discrimination and privacy for all Malaysians.
“Allowing this travesty of justice to stand will further undermine respect for rights and democracy in Malaysia,” says its deputy Asia director Phil Robertson.
12.57PM: Court registrar says they are about to begin.
12.52PM: Court reporters told to take their seats while Anwar's supporters make a beeline to hug him.
12.45PM: Anwar tells his grandchildren to concentrate on their studies, while an ashen-faced Wan Azizah says the family must remain strong.
12.40PM: Supporters are being asked to gather at the rear entrance of the Palace of Justice in anticipation of Anwar being taken to jail.
PKR supreme council member Fariz Musa says this is to allow supporters to see Anwar for the last time.
12.35PM: Minutes after the verdict is announced, the Prime Minister's Department issues a press statement, which reads:
"The judges will have reached their verdict only after considering all the evidence in a balanced and objective manner. Malaysia has an independent judiciary, and there have been many rulings against senior government figures.
"The police report against Anwar Ibrahim was brought by a private individual - Anwar's employee and personal assistant - not by the government. As the victim of a serious sexual assault, he had every right to have his case heard in court.
"In this case, exhaustive and comprehensive due process has been followed over many years. That process is now complete, and we call on all parties involved to respect the legal process and the judgment".
12.32PM: A distraught looking PAS deputy president Mohamad Sabu refuses to entertain questions from journalists.
12.30PM: Tears flow in the Palace of Justice as Anwar's supporters' come to terms with the verdict. The chatter in the lobby has stopped and many opposition MPs in attendance are silent.
"I am very disappointed," said a teary-eyed Maria Chin Abdullah, the head of Bersih.
PAS central committee member Dr Hatta Ramli was spotted tearing up at one corner of the lobby.
But a stoic Anwar is seen hugging Pakatan Rakyat leaders such as Mohamad Sabu, Mahfuz Omar and Dr Xavier Jeyakumar before talking to his lawyers.
12.10PM: Defence seeks an hour-long adjourment before sentencing.
12.05PM: After reading for two hours, Justice Arifin arrives at the guilty verdict.
The judge says there is overwhelming evidence that Saiful was sodomised by the accused because there is substantial scientific and corroborative evidence.
12.00PM: Based on the facts of the case, Justice Arifin holds that Dr Mohd Osman Abdul Hamid from Pusrawi Hospital was not telling the truth when claiming in his medical report that plastic objects were inserted into Saiful's anus.
The judge says the HKL doctors did not draw similar conclusions.
11.55AM: Justice Arifin says Anwar did not dispute that he was in the condominium and that Saiful was also there.
"We hold there is no merit in the complaint of political conspiracy. A mere denial (from Anwar) does not mean it could be accepted. A political conspiracy allegation remains unsubstantiated," he adds.
11.52AM: Justice Arifin touches on the allegation that Saiful met Najib, who was then deputy prime minister, and the latter’s special officer Khairul Anas.
11.50AM: Justice Arifin focuses on other defence witnesses, including Anwar’s former aide Najwan Halimi’s testimony that he was surprised to see Saiful, known to be a BN sympathiser, working for the opposition leader.
11.45AM: As the judgments unfolds, Twitter is abuzz that the opposition leader may be found guilty.
"Moving towards conviction," wrote PKR legal bureau chief Latheefa Koya.
"Looks like may be guilty verdict based on what's reported so far. Malaysia to be in spotlight for all the wrong reasons again," adds Jakarta-based journalist Beh Lih Yih in a Twitter posting.
"Looks very grim," tweeted Bayan Baru MP Sim Tze Tzin.
11.43AM: Justice Arifin now shifts to Anwar’s alibi. “Anwar alleged that the samples had been tampered with and blamed the media for making prejudicial statements. He also criticised the High Court ruling that Saiful was a truthful witness,” he says. He then repeats Anwar’s conspiracy claim.
11.40AM: Justice Arifin continues. He says there is nothing "inferiorly fallible" in the chemists’ evidence.
11.35AM: There is an interruption due to problems with the microphone.
11.31AM: As Justice Arifin continues to read the judgment, one of Anwar’s children breaks into tears. All his six children are present in court.
11.30AM: Justice Arifin also notes how the chemist testified that it is consistent with the complainant’s allegation that he was sodomised.
11.28AM: Justice Arifin also states that the chemists found semen samples and sperm heads.
“The finding of sperm heads after two days is not unusual,” he adds.
11.27AM: At ths juncture, Anwar turns to look at Wan Azizah.
11.26AM: The top judge rules that the samples are not contaminated.
11.25AM: Justice Arifin rules that there is no break in custody of the samples and that DSP Jude Pereira, the investigating officer, was careful in leaving the cut plastic bag hanging.
11.08AM: Justice Arifin also rules that the items from the lock-up were legally obtained, and terms it as “independent evidence”.
“We (the panel) are of the view that conducting a trial-within-trial (on the admissibility of evidence from the detention cell) was unnecessary,” he says.
11.05AM: As for the lock-up evidence, the top judge concludes that Anwar had used the items as the cell was vacant before him.
11.03AM: Justice Arifin moves to the evidence from chemists Dr Seah Lay Hong and Nor Aidora Saedon as well as how the trial judge found there was ample corroboration evidence. He says a prima facie case was established and the Court of Appeal agreed.
“Saiful is not an accomplice and there is enough corroborative evidence to support his testimony,” he adds.
11AM: The top judge states that the Evidence Act does not require corroboration. (The High Court had ruled that the chemists’ evidence did not corroborate with Saiful’s testimony). He says the evidence of the complainant can be relied upon without corroboration.
10.50AM: Justice Arifin also raised the infamous Brioni suit and as for the carpet seized, he states that it is not critical evidence.
10.46AM: On Saiful, Justice Arifin says his minute details must be borne in mind and that the complainant had stuck to his testimony despite a thorough cross examination. Due to this, Justice ArIfin says the Court of Appeal ruled that Saiful’s evidence was acceptable.
10.45AM: Justice Arifin reads Anwar’s defence questioning Saiful’s conduct of bringing the KY jelly and the Pusrawi doctor claiming that a plastic object had been inserted into his anus. The chief justice notes that Saiful had alleged there were previous sexual encounters, and the defence had countered by asking why he did not flee.
10.43AM: The judge is now focusing on the issue of Saiful’s credibility.
10.42AM: Justice Arifin says the experts who testified for the defence cast aspersion on the condition of the samples, hence the KL High Court was of the opinion that there was reasonable doubt concerning the samples.
10.39AM: The judge is now reading the testimonies of defence witnesses Prof David Wells and Prof Brian Mcdonalds. He says spinal surgeon Dr Thomas Hoogland was of the opinion that Anwar cannot perform such sexual acts because of his back problem.
10.37AM: Justice Arifin points out that Anwar gave his statement from the dock where he alleged a conspiracy by Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak and questioned Saiful’s conduct.
10.33AM: Justice Arifin notes how Anwar was detained and brought with him a towel, toothbrush and mineral water bottle. These items were retrieved by the police the following day and the samples were handed over to the Kuala Lumpur police headquarters.
10.27AM: After disclosing how Saiful was referred to Hospital Kuala Lumpur, where samples were taken, Justice Arifin says the chemist found sperm cells from the higher and lower rectal swabs. He also notes that the doctor’s initial findings showed there were no signs of penetration.
10.20AM: Justice Arifin recounts the incident, from Saiful arriving at the condominium and how a lubricant was used as well as his anus being penetrated. He notes how Saiful resigned after the incident and was accompanied by his uncle to Hospital Pusrawi.
10.17AM: Chief Justice Arifin says consent is not an ingredient of the offence, recalls how Saiful worked as a volunteer and served as Anwar’s assistant.
10.12AM: Chief Justice Arifin is reading the judgment, starting with the background of the case and the charge against Anwar.
10.08AM: Court is now in session with Chief Justice Arifin leading the five-member bench. Anwar enters and bows. He also bows to those seated in the public gallery.
10AM: There are about 200 supporters of Saiful armed with banners and are chanting slogans demanding for Anwar's incarceration.
Their leader identified himself as Saiful Suhaimi Adnan, or Suhaimi Taliban, said that his group arrived late because they were volunteers and were not paid.
"They (Anwar supporters) appeared as early as 7am because they were paid and came on busses.
"We are volunteers. Not paid!" he told reporters.
9.47AM: Court orderlies are seen preparing the documents for the judges. The court is expected to be in session soon.
Wan Azizah's father Wan Ismail Wan Mahmood walks in and sits next to his daughter.
9.45AM: One of Saiful’s so-called supporters claims that he was paid "duit minyak" (petrol money) to come to court.
Identifying himself only as Syafiq, he tells Malaysiakini that he and his friends rode to the Palace of Justice from Puchong on motorcycles.
"I just followed the rest," he adds
9.40AM: Some 50 supporters of Mohd Saiful Bukhari Azlan are also present, armed with placards and banners.
One of the banners reads, "Liwat tetap liwat", mocking PKR and Anwar’s often used slogan of "Lawan tetap lawan".
Suhaimi Adnan, who is heading the group, says they were not paid to come to court.
"We came to prove that Saiful is not alone," he adds as the group chants 'Tangkap Anwar' (Arrest Anwar) and 'Hukum Peliwat' (Punish the sodomite).
9.35AM: Wan Azizah tells reporters inside the courtroom that the judges not only have to answer to the people but to their conscience and God.
"Judgement has to be based on facts. I'm confident that Anwar is innocent and should be released"
"Let me not have a reason to question the judiciary," she adds.
9.18AM: Anwar tells reporters that he is anxious like them. "I will continuously pray," he adds with a smile.
He then has a word with former Bersih co-chairperson Ambiga Sreenavasan.
9.15AM: About 1,000 supporters are now gathering within the vicinity of the court complex.
9.11AM: National laureate A Samad Said is also in the public gallery.
Anwar is having a word with his lawyers Sivarasa, Latheefa and Eric. Whereas, Shafee's aides are spotted carrying boxes of documents.
9.08AM: Court staff remind those inside the courtroom to wear their respective passes, failing which, they will be asked to leave.
Also in court are Anwar’s daughters, including Nurul Izzah, who brought her son along.
9.02AM: Anwar arrives at court accompanied by his wife PKR president Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail and family. They are mobbed by media photographers.
Accompanying him are DAP supremo Lim Kit Siang and Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng.
According to a Channel News Asia tweet, Anwar says he had a good night's sleep and is optimistic that the court will rule in his favour.
8.55AM: Court security are once again checking the passes of those in court. Those with passes restricting them only to the lobby are ushered out.
8.57AM: Chief prosecutor Shafee enters the court with his legal team.
8.49AM: A 74-year-old environmental activist has come all the way from Kuantan, and demands to see Mohd Saiful Bukhari Azlan.
“Where is Saiful?” asks Tow Ah Mei.
“I want to examine him. Since he complained of being sodomised, might as well let the people check him,” she thunders.
8.40AM: Former Federal Court judge and Anwar's lead defence counsel Gopal Sri Ram is now in the court room.
He is accompanied by defence counsels Sangeet Kaur and Eric Paulsen.
The prosecution team includes DPP Mohd Hanafiah Zakaria, who is deputy head of the prosecution division of the Attorney-General Chambers and Saiful's lawyer Zamri Idrus.
Human Rights Watch asia division deputy director Phil Robertson is also in court.
8.35am: An Anwar supporter faints following an epileptic bout. His friends rush to his aid and the man appears to return to normal some 15 minutes later.
8.20AM: Reporters, international observers, MPs and the public are allowed to enter the courtroom.
Among those in the public gallery are Shah Alam MP Khalid Samad and PAS central committee member Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad.
Reporters are seated on the left side of the courtroom, while the public and MPs are seated in the middle and on the right.
Anwar's family is yet to be seen.
8.15AM: A Muslim preacher delivers a speech near Anwar's supporters, denouncing the Pakatan Rakyat symbol as a representation of Satanism and says that democracy has no place in Islam.
"If you don't believe in God, please leave the country. Which religion condones homosexuality?" he says.
8.10AM: Security is tight. International observers are lining up and lawyers have to show their case files in order to be granted entry into the premises.
Other than police in riot gear, mounted police units are also patrolling the vicinity.
Meanwhile, some 200 people held a short march, led by PKR Youth chief Nik Nazmi Nik Ahmad.
8.05AM: Anwar's supporters have started streaming into the Sultan Zainal Abidin mosque since 6am. Thirty buses, believed to be used to ferry supporters, were spotted nearby.
Security at the Palace of Justice is extremely tight with plenty of police cordons. The entire stretch of road outside the building is closed to traffic and police in riot gear are nearby.
The only case that will be heard in Federal Court 1 is Anwar's appeal. The court is normally used when Chief Justice Arifin is presiding.
8AM: All eyes will be on the five-member Federal Court bench that will decide on whether Anwar Ibrahim's appeal against the conviction and sentence for sodomy will be upheld.
Led by Chief Justice Arifin Zakaria, the panel is expected to take an hour to deliver its verdict beginning at 9am.
It is unknown as to who among the five-member panel will write and read the judgment.
It also remains uncertain whether the decision will be unanimous or if there will be any dissenting judgment similar to the Federal Court decision in 2004 which acquitted Anwar.
Should the Federal Court maintain the conviction, then the panel will listen to submissions from Shafee Abdullah, the private lawyer who has been appointed by the government to lead the prosecution.
The submissions are necessary because the prosecution made a cross-appeal to increase the five-year jail sentence handed to Anwar, 67, by the Court of Appeal.
Anwar is staring at a maximum jail sentence of 20 years.
After Shafee's submission, Anwar's defence team, led by former Federal Court judge Gopal Sri Ram, will submit their replies. Shafee will then make one final replay.
The defence and prosecution team have already been asked to prepare written submissions, in case the conviction is upheld. Some observers believe this is a bad omen.
Should Anwar be found guilty, the apex court, after hearing the submissions, will decide on sentencing and bring an end to a case that has dragged on for seven years, involving 27 prosecution and eight defence witnesses.
Follow Malaysiakini full coverage of Federal Court verdict here.
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