Dr Mahathir Mohamad has filed a RM150 million lawsuit against Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim over claims that the former premier had amassed wealth for personal riches while in power.
Mahathir's counsel from Law Practice of Rafique filed the writ of summons at the High Court in Shah Alam two days ago.
When contacted by Malaysiakini, Anwar’s counsel Alliff Benjamin Suhaimi confirmed that they were served copies of the civil action on that day.
On April 17, it was reported Mahathir would proceed with legal action after Anwar did not comply with the nonagenarian’s letter of demand for an apology over the claim made during the PKR president’s policy speech at the party’s Special National Congress on March 18.
According to a copy of the statement of claim, Mahathir alleged that Anwar, who is also Harapan chairperson and PKR president, made untrue and baseless statements with the intent to create a negative perception against him.
The plaintiff claimed that the allegation had “tainted the plaintiff’s image as a statesman (negarawan) who was the former prime minister (twice), has a reputation as a politician and leader who is respected in Malaysia and worldwide”.
Mahathir claimed that the allegation had not only ruined his image and reputation but also brought shame upon himself as well as his family members.
The veteran politician alleged that the claims had jeopardised support and faith in him in the realms of politics, business and/or income opportunity.
The plaintiff claimed that all his children are individuals who succeeded in the world of business without his intervention or any abuse of power by him as then prime minister.
Let this be a lesson
Mahathir contended that the defamation suit should serve as a lesson to any leader to never issue statements with malice to smear any individual.
“Furthermore, taking into account the defendant’s position as prime minister who has the power and/or workforce (tenaga kerja) to conduct research and/or double-check facts before it is uttered, the plaintiff is entitled to seek high exemplary damages as a lesson to any minister and/or leader to not easily issue statements without checking first and for the purpose of mere ‘political points’,” he claimed.
The plaintiff is seeking RM50 million in general damages and RM100 million in exemplary damages.
Mahathir seeks a court order for Anwar to issue a written apology and for the immediate retraction of the allegations.
The plaintiff is also seeking 5 percent annual interest on the damages awarded to be calculated from the date of filing the civil action until full settlement of payment of compensation, costs, and any other relief the court deems fit.
The defamation suit is set for case management before the High Court in Shah Alam on May 31. - Mkini
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