KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 23 — Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor have agreed to end their personal dispute in the defamation suit proceedings at the Alor Setar High Court today.
In a joint statement, the Prime Minister and the Kedah Menteri Besar said that after considering its implications and legal costs that both parties would incur, they had mutually agreed to resolve the matter amicably and conclusively, in light of broader and more pressing national interest matters that require attention.
“Accordingly, Muhammad Sanusi has, openly, in good faith and unconditionally, withdrawn the statements he made on November 13, 2022, against Anwar. He has also undertaken not to repeat any of the statements forming the basis of this legal action.
“In response, Anwar, acknowledging this sincere effort, has agreed to withdraw the civil suit filed against Muhammad Sanusi, with no order as to costs and without liberty to file afresh,” the statement read.
The statement noted that the withdrawal of the suit is an effort to foster goodwill and maintain a respectful relationship between both parties.
Anwar and Sanusi expressed their highest appreciation to Judge John Lee Kien How @ Mohd Johan Lee, whose mediation efforts made the settlement possible.
Both leaders also extended their gratitude to the court officers involved for their professionalism and discretion in handling the case. They further expressed hope that the settlement will be accepted and respected by all parties and not be used in any way to disrupt the nation’s peace, unity, or harmony.
Meanwhile, Anwar’s counsel Datuk Sankara Narayan Nair confirmed the matter when contacted by Bernama.
The Prime Minister filed the defamation suit against Sanusi on December 13, 2022, over allegedly defamatory remarks made during the 'Jelajah PN Best Tambun' campaign.
