Supporters upset with the rejection of Anwar Ibrahim's bail application this afternoon turned their anger on the police convoy escorting the ex-deputy premier back to his prison cell in Sungai Buloh.

Furious supporters blocked several prison vehicles at the exit of the Palace of Justice car park lot, and slammed and pelted them with posters as they passed by.

Although the supporters had gathered peacefully, they were roused to anger as the multi-vehicle convoy drove past without their having the opportunity to catch a glimpse of Anwar. He was seated inside a prison four-wheel drive vehicle with darkened windows.

While some supporters were restrained by Parti Keadilan Rakyat (Keadilan) leaders, several others lunged at the vehicles, shouting abuse against the judiciary and the police.

This was in reaction to Court of Appeal judgment, which dismissed Anwar's applications for bail and to review its own decision on his sodomy conviction.

One group also blocked the narrow road leading out of the parking area for a tense moment before they were pulled aside by the police.

Earlier, Putrajaya police chief Khalil Khadir had given permission for supporters to line the road.

"If they want to wave to Anwar, it is okay, so long as they don't do anything against the law," he said.

Abdullah blamed

The 200-strong crowd reacted with fury and tears when news of the court decision filtered out to them.

Although many had expressed pessimism at the outset, they were nevertheless upset when informed by Keadilan Youth chief Mohd Ezam Mohd Nor that the courts had once again turned down Anwar's bid for freedom.

Shouting reformasi slogans and singing songs, the crowd focused their anger on Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, his predecessor Dr Mahathir Mohamad, as well as the sitting judges.

"The decision shows that Abdullah is no different from Mahathir. It is a sign that our struggle has to continue. From now on, we have to attack Abdullah endlessly and let the world know about this," Mohd Ezam told the crowd, using an amplifier.

Speaking to reporters, he said the court decision had dashed hopes that Anwar might be released under the new administration.

"A lot of us put some hope in the new administration. Anwar is also in pain and his health is worsening. So there was every reason for the judges to grant bail. It is unthinkable for a civilised country like Malaysia to deny bail to a former government leader," he said.

Mohd Ezam said the development has pressed home the need for Keadilan to step up its campaign in view of the upcoming general election.

"We will also campaign internationally to let the world know that Abdullah is just like Mahathir despite his somewhat positive image now," he said.

Decision anticipated

Met later, Keadilan president and Anwar's wife Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail criticised the judgement as "pathetic".

"This will certainly not enhance the image of Abdullah as wanting change. The same rotten system is still in place. We are a little (frustrated) but it has been like this all along. It has been proven again and again," she said.

Wan Azizah said Anwar had reacted in anger in the court room although he too had expected the decision.

"He expected it. He knew...he told the judges that they are in contempt of the court and of human dignity," she said.

Keadilan deputy president Dr Syed Husin Ali criticised the government for not taking steps to reverse the "unfair political" case against Anwar.

"The prime minister's cabinet set the tone for the decision. It shows that Abdullah is still under Mahathir's thumb by ordering this decision," he added.