Anwar’s guilty verdict calls for a rethink – Puthan Perumal

Let me not waste your time on the reason for this article. It is a direct reaction on the verdict regarding  Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim. Yes, Datuk Seri. No doubt I have been told to refer to the latter as saudara etc., I honestly believe that the very person who granted you a title should be the only person who can take it away. It’s like a father who names his son/daughter. He can be the only one who disowns him/ her.

After the verdict at the Federal Court yesterday, there was one feeling that came to mind. The feeling that I got when I had the privilege of watching the musical Les Miserables in London. I now can say that Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim is prisoner 24601 in that musical, for those who are familiar with it.

First and foremost, let me say this. I have no idea how those involved in the incarceration of  Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim can sleep peacefully at night. They must be troubled with constant nightmares. Not to mention their guilty conscious pricking them.

As a human being, I have never seen a self-proclaimed public protector having so much zest to put a 67-year-old behind bars for a crime that was clearly fabricated. For those involved in this, good luck with living with yourselves. You would have heard of the law of karma. It does hit you back tenfold.

I can only hope that  Datuk  Seri Anwar Ibrahim is comfortable in prison and is given proper reading material.

I have never had the privilege of meeting Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim personally, but I have been following him in many aspects.

One thing is quite certain, from back in 1998 till yesterday, he still stands for the same thing. Justice.  And what a journey he has endured. Do not be fooled, his journey is far from over.

For those who have forgotten that principle of justice, do ask for forgiveness.

They say in every death, there is a birth. Likewise, when a person has to sacrifice his freedom, it must only mean that it is done for something much bigger. Like the calm before the storm. Like the water receding before the tsunami hits.

I cannot begin to fathom the agony that the family members of  Datuk Seri’ Anwar Ibrahim are going through. In a snap of a finger their beloved husband/father/grandfather is taken away. Just for standing up for what is right. This could happen to any of us.

I only hope that Malaysians would not resort to violence because of yesterday’s verdict but should rather ponder in what direction we want our country to be heading to.

Thoughts and prayers with Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and family.

* Puthan Perumal is an advocate and solicitor.