Sunday June 29, 2008 MYT 8:22:25 PM

Allies, opponents react to Anwar sodomy allegation

By NEWSDESK

KOTA BARU: The Opposition may be affected by the allegation of sexual misconduct against PKR adviser Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, says PAS spiritual adviser Datuk Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat.

However, he said, at this stage it was just a person's word against Anwar and the police should conduct a through investigation.

He said the allegations could be related to a political conspiracy to trap Anwar.

"Such accusation requires witnesses in Islam. It could be true or it could be a conspiracy.

"It is difficult to prove one person’s word against another. That is why, witnesses are required,” he told reporters at Sultan Ismail Petra airport before flying to Perak for a visit.

Kelantan Umno information chief Datuk Md Alwi Che Ahmad said:

"We can only speculate until the police conclude its investigations and the court process takes over.

"Nobody from Umno has anything to gain from trying to fabricate (accusations against) Anwar especially in the current political landscape,” he said.

Pasir Mas MP Datuk Ibrahim Ali urged the police to expedite the investigations and the people not to prejudge anyone.

State PKR Youth head Wan Khaiirul Wan Mohamad believes the allegation was an effort by certain quarters to distract the public from the ongoing problems in Barisan Nasional.

In George Town, Penang Chief Minister Lim Guan Eng said the allegation of sexual misconduct against PKR adviser Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim would not affect Pakatan Rakyat.

"What is true is true and what is false is false and we will let the police determine that,” he said when asked to comment on the allegation.

He hoped police would investigate the matter independently and fairly.

In Kuala Lumpur PKR deputy president Dr Syed Husin Ali called on party supporters not to demonstrate or react unlawfully.

"Continue with our work in a professional and disciplined manner. Anwar has denied the allegation and the top leadership will counter the accusation using the lawful way.

"This accusation is a fabrication and we will not be derailed of our Sept 16 target (to form the new Federal Government)," he told a press conference.

Anwar’s political secretary Sim Tze Tzin said the allegation was unfounded and a total fabrication.

He said it was a tactic used to divert the public’s attention in face of the current economic and political situation.

He said PKR leaders had a meeting to “strategise” their next move.

More News