Anwar, who appeared in court Monday wearing a neckbrace, has
     pleaded not guilty to five sodomy charges and another five corruption
     charges.

     Justice Augustine Paul made the order after an appeal by Anwar's lawyers
     who charged that "people in high offices" were commenting on the case as
     if the sacked leader was guilty of the charges.

     "I do not think it is appropriate for anybody to comment on the guilt or
     innocence of (Anwar) directly or indirectly," Paul said.

     "In order to ensure a fair trial, with effect from today, such statements
     should be ceased to be made," he said.

     Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad, several ministers and others have
     been making statements on Anwar's case since his ouster on September 2.

     Anwar, the 51-year-old former finance minister was arrested on
     September 20 under the powerful Internal Security Act after he led a
     massive anti-government rally in Kuala Lumpur. The act allows for
     indefinite detention without trial.