Dr Mahathir Mohamad has called for the immediate release of his heir-apparent-turned-nemesis-turned-ally Anwar Ibrahim from prison.
The former premier made the call in a joint statement with US-based human rights lawyer Kimberly Motley.
Almost two decades ago, Anwar had accused Mahathir of authoring a political conspiracy against him and fabricating a charge of sexual misconduct.
Mahathir, on the other hand, claimed that Anwar lacked the moral fibre to lead the nation.
However, Mahathir now considers Anwar a political prisoner and prisoner of conscience who has endured more than 34 months in prison.
The former opposition leader is serving a five-year jail term for a sodomy charge, which he claims was fabricated as well, this time by Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak's administration.
Mahathir, who is the chairperson of Pakatan Harapan, and Motley, who is in Kuala Lumpur, held a meeting to discuss Anwar's current position.
“We had a fruitful meeting yesterday. We jointly agree Anwar should be unconditionally released from prison immediately. He is currently in hospital undergoing long-term medical treatment.
“Anwar is a political prisoner and has endured more than 34 months in prison.
“He is scheduled for release in June 2018 and his current medical state is of concern to his family, friends, and people around the world,” said the pair in the joint statement this afternoon.
Mahathir and Motley said Anwar, as a 70-year-old prisoner of conscience, requires significant medical care which has been hampered due to his incarceration.
“We urge the government to consider our request seriously and for the sake of justice and the international relations of Malaysia,” they added.- Mkini
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