Anwar Begins Legal Action Against Umno Deputy Minister Puad Zarkashi Over False Allegations on Lajim’s Resignation

I refer to the statement in Sinar Harian on 31 July 2012 by Umno Supreme Council member Dr Mohd Puad Zarkashi alleging that opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had made payments to Datuk Seri Lajim Ukin to resign from his positions in Umno and BN. This statement is a scurrilous lie and unbefittting Puad Zarkashi’s position as a federal deputy minister. Consistent with Umno’s politics of slander and character assasination, no proof is given by Puad Zarkashi to substantiate his outrageous allegation. This libellous statement is proof of UMNO’s desperation and fear in the face of massive loss of support for the BN in Sabah. The brave resignation of Datuk Seri Lajim Ukin was made in the interest of the people of Sabah who have long suffered under the oppressive and corrupt rule of UMNO/BN. We call upon UMNO/BN leaders to abandon the politics of ‘fitnah’ and instead engage Pakatan Rakyat in constructive and reasoned debate in the national interest.

In view of the seriousness of this false and irresponsible allegation, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has through his solicitors issued a letter to Dr Mohd Puad Zarkashi, demanding that he withdraw the allegation within 48 hours from today. Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has also demanded that Puad Zarkashi publish an unconditional apology in two national dailies including Sinar Harian and also claims damages and legal costs. Any failure by Dr Mohd Puad Zarkashi to comply with these demands will result in the immediate issuance of a Writ of Summons against him.

Issued by,
N SURENDRAN
VICE PRESIDENT
KEADILAN

2nd August 2012

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