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Anwar supporters protest in Kuala Lumpur

Demonstrators called for Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad to resign and some burned portraits of the Malaysian premier. Pro-government newspapers were also burnt.

"Mahathir is crazy for power," said one demonstrator.

Another said the protest had taken place "to keep the spirit of reform alive."

It is the first anti-government protest to be held since Mr Anwar's trial on charges of corruption and sexual misconduct began last week.

The demonstration took place in the Kampong Bahru district of the city - the scene of violent clashes between demonstrators and police two weeks ago. Then, more than 260 people were arrested.

Illegal demonstrations

Police have warned that such demonstrations are illegal but there was no security presence reported and Saturday's protest passed off without violence.

The protesters also called for a fair trial for Mr Anwar, who until his dismissal was widely seen as the prime minister's likely successor.

Many chanted the now familiar call of "reformasi" (reform) that has come to characterise the movement Mr Anwar began after he was sacked in early September.

Prosecution case

In the first week of the trial the prosecution case appeared increasingly unsteady as the lead witness, police intelligence chief Mohamad Said Awang, read out in court his own report which dismissed as unfounded allegations of sodomy and adultery against the former deputy prime minister.

He also admitted that he would lie to the court if the government or his superiors asked him to do so.

Mr Anwar says that the charges against him are part of a high level political conspiracy.

The trial has drawn widespread international attention ahead of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit meeting that takes place in the city on 16-18 November.

Many world leaders and human rights organisations have expressed concern at the fairness of the trial and the conditions under which Mr Anwar has been held.

On Saturday, Canadian Prime Minister Jean Chetrien announced that he would follow President Clinton and not hold bilateral talks with the Malaysian prime minister because of concerns about the trial.

According to reports, Canadian government officials said Mr Chetrien and Mr Clinton agreed a few days ago to turn down any Malaysian request for a formal meeting.

The court in Kuala Lumpur has already ruled that Mr Anwar's trial will be adjourned for the duration of the summit.

Relevant Stories

Anwar trial focuses on political plot (06 Nov 98 | Malaysia crisis)
A crisis unfolds: Timeline (30 Oct 98 | Malaysia crisis)
Anwar upbeat as trial opens (02 Nov 98 | Asia-Pacific)
The case against Anwar (05 Oct 98 | Malaysia crisis)
World to watch Anwar trial (28 Oct 98 | Asia-Pacific)

Internet Links

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