In Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, the Prime Minister, Anwar Ibrahim, has received a temporary reprieve concerning a civil lawsuit that accuses him of sexual misconduct. This decision was taken by the Court of Appeal on Tuesday after Anwar requested a halt to the trial that was supposed to begin next week.
The lawsuit was initiated in 2021 by Muhammed Yusoff Rawther, a former research assistant to Anwar. Yusoff, aged 32, alleges that the PM engaged in sexual harassment in 2018, a number of years before Anwar assumed office in November 2022. Anwar, who is 77, strongly denies all allegations of wrongdoing, claiming that Yusoff’s accusations are false and intended to disrupt his political journey.
This case has attracted significant attention, especially after Anwar sought immunity from prosecution, a move that has sparked criticism from his opponents and others. Last week, the High Court rejected his application for immunity, emphasizing that everyone should be subject to the law equally. Anwar is taking this decision to the country’s highest court, with the hearing scheduled for July 21.
In a recent development, the Court of Appeal granted Anwar a temporary postponement of the trial that was slated to begin on June 16. This stay will be in place until the Federal Court reviews his case next month.
Through his legal team, Anwar is asking the Federal Court to clarify certain legal issues, particularly whether an acting prime minister can be immune from lawsuits related to events prior to their official appointment. Anwar’s legal representatives argue that the continuing legal action could hinder his ability to govern effectively and potentially destabilize the political landscape.
The ongoing case poses a significant challenge to Anwar’s leadership of a unity government that includes previously opposing factions. While facing these allegations, he has consistently refuted claims that he is seeking personal protection or attempting to dodge legal accountability.
In a social media statement, Anwar highlighted the importance of maintaining the integrity of the constitutional system. He emphasized the need to shield holders of high public offices from legal battles that might be timed strategically or politically driven.
Previously, Anwar served as an opposition reformist leader but was jailed twice on charges of sodomy. He maintains that past charges were contrived by the government to derail his political ambitions. Notably, he received a royal pardon in 2018, shortly before the incident alleged by Yusoff.
Meanwhile, Yusoff is currently detained and faces a separate trial after authorities found drugs and imitation firearms in his possession last September. He alleges these charges were fabricated by politically motivated individuals in positions of power. A court decision this Thursday will determine whether Yusoff should present a defense or be acquitted.