Kuala Lumpur: In a surprise verdict, Malaysia's highest court today (Sep 2, 2004) set aside the conviction of former Deputy Premier Anwar Ibrahim for sodomy and freed the rebel politician after nearly six years of imprisonment.

A three-member Federal Court panel, in a 2-1 majority decision, allowed Anwar's appeal against conviction amidst cheers from his supporters.

"Thank God it's all over," a visibly relieved 57-year-old Anwar told reporters after he was released. "(But) I remain committed to the opposition, to my struggle for justice."

His wife, Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, said, "I am happy he is acquitted. It is like a healing process to our family and the nation because my husband is now free."

She added that Anwar wanted to fly to Munich as early as possible for treatment of his chronic back pain if he can get a passport.

The unexpected ruling in Anwar's favour came on the anniversary of Anwar's shock sacking as Deputy Premier by then Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad on September 2, 1998.

Judge Abdul Hamid Mohamad, speaking for the majority on the appeals panel, said, "We are not prepared to uphold the conviction...we therefore allow the appeal and set aside the conviction and sentence."

The charismatic leader was seen as an heir-apparent to Mahathir till he was sacked over differences on tackling the economic crisis that plunged through south-east Asia in 1997-98.