PAS lawmaker Awang Hashim has cited the time difference between Dr Mahathir Mohamad and Anwar Ibrahim’s administrations in relation to their respective dragnets against political rivals in his statement of defence against Anwar's defamation suit.
Arguing that it was the time factor which he had referred to in concluding that Anwar is “more vindictive” than his predecessor, the Pendang MP said Mahathir’s first act after becoming prime minister in 1981 was to release 21 detainees under the now defunct Internal Security Act (ISA).
On the other hand, he said Anwar’s political rivals were hauled to court within three months after the latter became prime minister on Nov 24, 2022.
