But a stupid one too. According to lawyer Shafee it was the current Prime Minister, whom he named, who he claims insisted that he, Shafee, be appointed prosecutor in the appeal against Anwar’s acquittal.

This because, according to Shafee, it was thought that the Crown Law Office did not have anyone capable of conducting this appeal! It is left to those so defamed to seek their own remedy; either in the Courts, or through the Bar Council.

Returning to the main point in Shafee’s statement how could Dr.Mahathir, then in retirement, have been either able or concerned to play a part in lawyer selection? Was he then PM Najib’s best friend or adviser that he could play such a role? No doubt, if he thinks it worth it, he will issue a formal denial and, considering the nature of Shafees’ claim, also whether to pursue the matter in the Courts or refer the latter’s conduct to the Bar Council.

The latter institution would do well to, and may currently be, doing a survey of Shafee’s professional conduct to determine if action needs to be taken against him.