The Dewan Rakyat's Independents' bloc is continuing to exert pressure on Opposition Leader Anwar Ibrahim to provide proof that the MPs were paid to quit PKR.

In a statement today, the five independent MPs - dubbed the Independent Consensus - said Anwar's claim that they were paid RM2 million by Umno or BN was merely a diversion.

"We are aware of various issues he is personally facing, such as weaknesses in PKR, doubts over his leadership abilities, the rising popularity of the prime minister, and of course, his ongoing sodomy trial," the statement said.

"The Independent Consensus urges the public to evaluate Anwar's political demeanour in the context of his ambition to be prime minister at any cost."

The consensus comprises Zahrain Hashim (Bayan Baru), Tan Tee Beng (Nibong Tebal), Zulkifli Nordin (Bandar Baru Kulim), Wee Choo Keong (Wangsa Maju) and Mohsin Fadzli Samsuri (Bagan Serai), all of whom were formerly with PKR.

On the eve of the PKR congress last month, Anwar issued a public statement saying he would soon reveal evidence that some members of the independent bloc were paid RM2 million to leave PKR.

Weeks have passed since then, but Anwar has refused to furnish further details, and even got into a row with an RTM reporter on the matter at the Parliament lobby yesterday.

A defensive Anwar refused to reveal a time frame to substantiate his claims, despite being repeatedly pressed by the reporter.

The independent bloc has also been quick to jump on this, claiming that Anwar's credibility would be in question unless he substantiated his allegations.