I saved Dr Mahathir from being overthrown, says Anwar after ex-PM’s criticism

KUALA LUMPUR – Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has hit out at Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad amid the opposition leader’s moves to form a new government, shutting down the former prime minister’s latest comments on him.

Asked about Dr Mahathir’s statement questioning Anwar’s ability to run the country and the purported row between the two, the latter told the Malaysia Gazette: “Ask him that, why ask me?”

In an interview with The Malaysian Insight published on Saturday, Dr Mahathir said Anwar may not be the best person to steer Malaysia’s economy out of troubled waters.

He said this is based on his observation of Anwar’s handling of the 1997 Asian financial crisis.

Anwar, then the deputy prime minister and finance minister, was left in charge of the country when Dr Mahathir went on sabbatical.

“It is true, he gave me space,” said the PKR president.

However, he denied that the statesman had built him up from nothing, saying such a remark by Dr Mahathir was merely a political statement.

“I played a role in defending him (Dr Mahathir). Everyone knew that in 1987, if I had not supported him, he would have been overthrown. He would have lost to Tengku Razaleigh,” he said, referring to the battle for the Umno presidency between Dr Mahathir and Kelantan prince Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah.

Anwar also spoke about the audience he had with the Agong last month to show the king he has the numbers to form a new administration.

He said it would not make sense to meet the Agong if he was not confident about having majority support in Parliament.

“I had an audience with the Agong once I was confident I had the support of political parties. But on the wisdom of the Agong, he wants to be sure of the matter first. God willing, it will be solved soon.”

He said it is common to hear people complaining about how they are not given important positions despite having fought for their parties’ struggle.

“Be patient if you are waiting for a position. I myself was in jail for a long time, and I don’t have a position. I am only the MP for Port Dickson.

“Betrayal happens in the history of every struggle. That’s why we don’t take traitors lightly.” – The Vibes, November 16, 2020