Deputy Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin ( below ) said it was improper for Mohamed Azmin Ali, the PKR deputy-presidential candidate, to describe Dr Mahathir Mohamad as a 'fallen leader'.

NONE "This should not be the case. In politics, we must have moral values and as human beings we must also have mutual respect.

"Mahathir is a reputable statesman who has contributed much to the country," he said to reporters when asked to comment on the statement by Mohamed Azmin today, describing Dr Mahathir, who is undergoing treatment in Melbourne, Australia for lung infection, as 'a fallen leader'.

Azmin made the sarcastic remark in his speech at the opening of the annual general meeting for the PKR Gombak division yesterday.

The PKR leader was also quoted as saying that the remark was prompted by Dr Mahathir's collaboration with the Malay right-wing group Perkasa which was alleged to be championing a narrow racial agenda.

Muhyiddin said Azmin should be guided by humanitarian sentiments.

"When Mahathir is unwell and is admitted to hospital, all Malaysians are praying for his speedy recovery and his return home to serve the country in his capacity as a former prime minister.

"So the statement was uncalled for because we have mutual respect for each other.

"(I) don't know if this is the style of leadership in the PKR," he added.

- Bernama