This book is an objective analysis of the strategies and meticulous planning employed by Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim which enabled the opposition to win five states and 82 parliamentary constituencies at the recent 12th general elections, thereby denying the ruling Barisan Nasional its two thirds majority in parliament. The author, Mutharasan focuses on the details of the strategies planned by Anwar Ibrahim months before the general elections and how he successfully implemented them. The issues which were capitalized upon by Anwar Ibrahim and the factors that helped and propelled him to achieve his historic success are also discussed. Interesting theories and explanations are provided as to how the once indomitable Barisan Nasional was weakened over the years to be defeated so badly at the 2008 polls.

The book also traces the activities of Anwar Ibrahim from the time he was a student leader, his meteoric rise in UMNO and the government, as well as his relentless fight from within the prison walls to re-emerge on the political scene with even more pomp and glory. What more needs to be said when he can be referred to as the Prime Minister-in-waiting. This book also explores the implications of Anwar Ibrahim’s prospect of returning to parliament as the opposition leader via a by-election in Permatang Pauh. Finally, the chances of the Pakatan Rakyat coalition forming the next federal government with Anwar Ibrahim as the prime minister are also discussed. There is no doubt that even after the general elections 2008, Anwar Ibrahim’s winning strategies continue to dominate the Malaysian political scene despite his recent arrest and charge.

This will be an interesting and thought provoking book for political analysts, enthusiasts, aspirants, politicians, and all those interested in the Malaysian political scenario.