<http://www.afp.com/ext/english/nst/malaysia/990910044930.fylhivre.html>

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 10 (AFP) - The family of former deputy premier Anwar
Ibrahim could be poisoning him with arsenic, Malaysia's attorney general
implied Friday, prompting an angry outburst from the jailed politician.

Mohtar Abdullah, who is the chief prosecutor in Anwar's sodomy trial, made
the suggestion after the judge ruled Anwar should be sent to hospital
following defence allegations he was suffering from arsenic poisoning.

Judge Arifin Jaka ordered the trial "postponed until such time doctors
certify that Anwar is fit."

Defence counsel Karpal Singh indicated earlier that Anwar was being
deliberately poisoned by authorities.

"I suspect some people in high places are in all likelihood responsible for
the situation," he told the court.

But Mohtar said such allegations were premature. "I caution my learned
friend not to jump the gun and accuse some people to conspire to kill or
injure Anwar. It is premature at this stage," he said.

"It could be a case of deliberate poisoning by someone or some persons
unknown -- whether in prison or on the court premises -- or it could be
accidental poisoning through food and drinks consumed by the accused in
prison and court precints," the attorney general said.

"I have personally seen the accused during court recess consume drinks and
food in this very court room," he added.

Anwar interrupted: "It is brought by my wife."

But Mohtar said police should investigate Anwar's movements in prison and
the courtroom in addition to "contact with persons contrary to prison rules.

"Anwar has been allowed by prison authorities to move around and mingle
with his family and friends," he said.

"If evidence shows that there is deliberate poisoning, as public prosecutor
I will leave no stone unturned."

In an angry outburst, Anwar banged his fist on the dock and shouted: "I'm
talking about poison and he's talking about prison regulations!"

"Please cool down," Judge Arifin said, adding Mohtar was just explaining
that he should not accuse anybody.

But Karpal intervened, saying Mohtar had accused the family. "An
insinuation has been made. It is ridiculous," he said.