KUALA LUMPUR: The Conference of Rulers and a former attorney-general had questioned the number of statutory declarations (SDs) submitted by Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin in the days after the 15th General Election.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said this was what happened in the days after the 15th General Election.
He said some members of parliament had allegedly signed multiple SDs in support for Muhyiddin to try to make up the numbers which were presented to the King at that time.
"Back then, the position of it (total number of SDs) was unclear. Muhyiddin claimed that he had 115 SDs, Anwar said he had 112, and then we had people signing the SD more than once, twice or even three times.
"There were differing opinions among parties (back then). Therefore, the King had to review and verify the situation to assure himself.
"After considering the situation, the King also called the Conference of Rulers to consult the Rulers' opinions.
"As far as I understand, based on the views of the rulers and the attorney-general at that time, who was appointed by Muhyiddin, the number was questionable, so it was left to the discretion of the King."
Anwar was speaking to reporters after having lunch at Gertak Merah stall at Kampung Sungai Penchala today.
He said this in response to a question on 115 SDs which Muhyiddin claimed he had in the days post-GE15.
On the SDs, Anwar said: "What is the problem (here)? The problem is that his (Muhyiddin) statement is interpreted as insulting and questioning the authority of the King. That's it.
"We know that some people (MPs) signed twice and thrice, as well as there were parties that delegate full authority to the party leaders.
"That's why when I proposed based on one interpretation and it was not accepted, I accepted it well."
Anwar then acknowledged that he refused to address the matter (regarding SD) before this.
"Why didn't I respond earlier? I thought it wasn't an issue. Whether the total SD is 115 or not, is incorrect.
"If it is 115 (as claimed by Muhyiddin), it should be 115. However, the King reviewed the SDs and saw that some people had signed more than once.
"Then there were parties that gave full mandate and SD to their party leaders to make decisions.
"I avoided addressing it (the issue) before, but he keeps playing with the 115 (number of SD)," said Anwar.