Patriot president Brig-Gen (Rtd) Mohamed Arshad Raji said the allegation must be investigated if Muhyiddin was serious about restoring the confidence of the public in his government.

“Patriot is shell-shocked and takes a very serious view of the prime minister’s statement that there were appeals for him to interfere in court matters to free several individuals charged with criminal acts,” he said in a statement.

Arshad said the statement made by Muhyiddin was a very grave matter that “cannot be left to the winds of unhealthy and potentially dangerous speculation”.

He said Patriot was also equally concerned that Muhyiddin’s statement was televised live as this could damage the reputation of the country in the eyes of global leaders and foreign investors.

“Patriot expects those implicated to step forward and own up even though it is most unthinkable. At the very least, they must pursue matters in court to prove their innocence,” he added.

Earlier today, Muhyiddin claimed he had received pressure from “certain parties” to intervene in matters of the court in order to set several individuals free from criminal charges.

In a national address, he said these individuals were uneasy over his strict stand in refusing to entertain their demands.

“This includes pressure for me to intervene in the matters of the court to release several individuals who are being charged with criminal offences,” he said.