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A Malaysian court has overturned the acquittal of opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim on sodomy
charges, upholding a government appeal. Mr Anwar led the opposition to its strongest
ever performance in the May 2013 general elections. While homosexual acts are illegal in Muslim-majority
Malaysia, very few people are ever prosecuted. Mr Anwar has always maintained the charges
were part of a political smear campaign. The court decision may affect Mr Anwar's plans
to compete in a key state by-election this month.
A High Court cleared Anwar Ibrahim of the charges in 2012, citing a lack of evidence.
The government later appealed against his acquittal.