Malaysian Opposition Leader Cleared of Sodomy Rap

Ruling could bolster Anwar Ibrahim in elections this year
By Mark Russell,  Newser Staff
Posted Jan 9, 2012 2:45 AM CST
Malaysian Opposition Leader Cleared of Sodomy Rap
Malaysian opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim addresses his supporters after coming out from the High Court where he heard the verdict of his sodomy trial in Kuala Lumpur.   (AP Photo/Mark Baker)

More than three years after being charged with sodomy, a criminal offense in Malaysia, opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim was surprisingly acquitted, reports Reuters. "Justice has been done. I am vindicated," Anwar told his supporters gathered at the courthouse. Anwar was found not guilty because DNA evidence against him had been contaminated. The acquittal could spur Anwar's political comeback, as Malaysia prepares for elections, likely coming this year. But analysts note the ruling could undercut Anwar's accusations of government and judicial corruption. (More Anwar Ibrahim stories.)

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