February 10th 2015 in Malaysia.

9 days too late. But just some thoughts on the recent conviction of Anwar Ibrahim.

There are some possibly incriminating pieces of evidence, such as Saiful's testimony and the fact that his DNA sample matched the stains on the mattress on which the act allegedly took place. (Source) 

But I can't help but feel troubled. Troubled also by the doubts that still linger on after the case has been resolved. I was reading a Facebook post that articulated why the judgment on this case is disturbing. In the court of law, the defendant has to be proven to be guilty beyond any reasonable doubt, but I can't help but feel doubtful of Anwar's guilt. Perhaps I'm wrong, but I just really don't think a 60-70 year old could have coerced or forced a young man into sodomy. I wouldn't go so far as to wholeheartedly propound Anwar's innocence, but if I - the ordinary layman - feel the evidence need heavier backup, why then is Anwar pronounced guilty beyond doubt?

Say he has truly committed the act. Has justice been served? 

Perhaps what unsettles me most of all is not the issue of Anwar's guilt or innocence; what unsettles me most of all is the fact that his acquittal has been overturned - during a time when the Opposition has gained substantial momentum after GE13. Was it mere coincidence that this all took place after the Opposition's comparatively strong performance in the recent General Elections? (by comparatively, I mean compared to previous years). 

I can’t say that I’m Anwar's biggest supporter. He has done things that I do not entirely agree with - even during his tenure as the Opposition's de facto leader. But I will admit that he has been fundamental to uniting the different parties under the Opposition, to create a synergy (though debatable in the present light of things) between these parties. However flawed the Opposition is, however glaring their internal conflicts and contradictions, the point remains that every democratic should and must have a check and balance.

Every government needs to have a "watchdog" whether it is official or unofficial. The point of the watchdog is not to criticise unnecessarily, may not even be to take the reins of control from the government; but simply this: to provide a voice - importantly, an alternative one - that keeps tabs on the government so as to ensure that the government will not misuse its power, will not turn complacent, will not neglect the welfare of the Rakyat.