Anwar makes 'amazing' recovery

Mr Anwar's wife (L) and doctor (R) are delighted with his progress

The newly released former deputy of Malaysia, Anwar Ibrahim, has made an "amazing" recovery from back surgery, according to his doctor in Germany.

Mr Anwar is expected to spend weeks recovering before returning to Malaysia to fight for a re-entry into politics.

He was freed from jail last week after a conviction for sodomy was quashed by the country's highest court.

His lawyers are now fighting another conviction which still stands but for which Mr Anwar has already served time.

Following surgery for a back problem Mr Anwar claims was caused by a police beating in custody, chief surgeon Thomas Hoogland found the former minister "has regained normal strength in his legs and can now walk pain-free".

ANWAR'S LEGAL BATTLE Sept 98 - Sacked and arrested April 99 - Jailed for six years for corruption relating to alleged sodomy July 00 - Sentenced to further nine years for sodomy - alleged to have had sex with five men July 2002 - Loses appeal against corruption conviction Sept 2004 - Wins appeal against sodomy conviction Profile: Anwar Ibrahim Anwar's release: Your views

A statement said Mr Anwar was making "amazing progress".

Mr Anwar himself, enjoying time with his family and walking unaided, declared the operation "a miracle".

Back in Malaysia, his lawyers were fighting to clear his name of a conviction for corruption, for which the politician had already served six years in prison.

If they fail, he faces a five-year ban on running for office.

He has always argued that he was the victim of a political conspiracy led by mentor turned rival, former Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad.