Anwar Ibrahim is the leader of Malaysia’s opposition, which won the majority of the popular vote in the 2013 elections and leads national opinion polls.
For 15 years the Malaysian government has used public institutions including the media, judiciary and electoral commission to persecute Anwar and derail his pro-democracy and anti-corruption agenda.
After spending six years in solitary confinement as a prisoner of conscience, this year, Anwar once again faces a prison sentence of at least five years on trumped up charges. Six other opposition leaders are also on trial and face possible expulsion from Parliament. The international community has vehemently condemned these political persecutions and highlighted the level of corruption and abuse of power by the Malaysian government.
The White House announced that President Obama will not meet Anwar Ibrahim during his visit to Malaysia this week. In doing so, the United States would be ignoring the 52% of Malaysians who support Anwar and believe in democratic reform, transparency and religious freedom.
From Britain to Burma, President Obama has met with opposition figures and a meeting with Anwar would demonstrate his willingness to engage with Malaysia on the basis of mutual interest and mutual respect.
Statement issued by the Press Office of Anwar Ibrahim, Leader of the Malaysian Opposition
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