Ousted deputy prime minister Anwar Ibrahim last night lashed out at former political friends and colleagues now closing ranks around premier Mahathir Mohamad.
In a sign that dealings are becoming far more personal in the traditionally polite but severe arena of Malaysian politics, Mr Anwar demanded that his deserting former colleagues in the ruling UMNO party give him a chance to clear his name after allegations of rampant sexual misconduct and treason.
New police allegations over the weekend include investigations into claims he has interfered with witnesses and committed sedition by warning in interviews of a political conspiracy.
'I understand they have to survive, but they don't have to attack me in such a crude manner,' Mr Anwar said from his home where he has remained since Friday.
'I would like to simply ask them what are the charges? There are only affidavits.' Mr Anwar singled out Foreign Minister Abdullah Badawi by name after he publicly backed Dr Mahathir's decision on the sacking last week.
Mr Badawi, seen as a possible replacement, warned that Mr Anwar was stirring up trouble by 'politicising' personal problems and could threaten Malaysia's image overseas.
'He is my friend . . . I understand he has to say some things,' Mr Anwar said.