With Zahid's discharge, world gets to see 'the real Anwar', says Bersatu man

Bersatu's Wan Saiful Wan Jan today hit out at Anwar Ibrahim over the High Court's decision to discharge his deputy Ahmad Zahid Hamidi in the Yayasan Akalbudi case, describing it as a reflection of the prime minister's "true character". 

"This development is a reflection of Anwar Ibrahim's credibility as prime minister," he said.

"The world has witnessed how Anwar's credibility as a reformist has been destroyed. That is why we must accept the true nature of Anwar's character. Anwar is a failed prime minister, and he leads an incompetent Cabinet. 

"That is why he is willing to do anything to stay in power."

Zahid, the Umno president, was crucial in committing the support of his 30 Barisan Nasional MPs to Anwar's government in the aftermath of the 15th general election.

He was given a discharge not amounting to an acquittal today after the Attorney-General's Chambers decided to discontinue the case, which had seen him slapped with 47 charges of corruption.

His lawyer Hisyam Teh Poh Teik later said that he would appeal for a full acquittal.

Wan Saiful said Zahid would use every opportunity to "escape" and divert attention to his political foes.

"We can expect that after this, Anwar will continue 'cleansing' the image of those who conspire with him, and he will also continue to tarnish the image of those who oppose him," he said.