Former premier Dr Mahathir Mohamad has given a former US vice-president and ex-deputy defence secretary a tongue-lashing for asking the US government to intervene in Anwar Ibrahim’s second sodomy trial.

NONE An article by the duo that was published on Aug 4 by the Wall Street Journal drew a sarcasm-laced retort by Mahathir on his blog today.

In between self-deprecating humour over his experience during Anwar's first sodomy trial, Mahathir derided the two authors - Al Gore and Paul Wolfowitz - and questioned their credibility.

"Malaysians must take heed of the advice by the great leaders of the US," said Mahathir, who described the country "truly democratic".

He cited such examples of ‘US democracy’ as ignoring the UN over the invasion of Iraq; lying about Iraq's possession of weapons of mass destructions; bombing Afghans and Iraqis; arbitrary detention of Muslims and other atrocities in the Middle East.

"Malaysians must never reject the advice of the great leaders of the US, a country dedicated to killing people so they can enjoy democratic rights,” said Mahathir.

"Tha al gore paul wolfowitz nk you Mr Gore (left) and thank you Mr ‘neocon’ Wolfowitz (right) , Anwar's friend, advisor of Bush on the shock and awe invasion of Iraq, which now enjoys so much peace and prosperity that thousands are regularly being blown to kingdom come.

"We, the Malay Muslims, must democratically choose your bosom pal as leader of our country. After all, he has been accused only of doing what you normally do in your great country.”

Gore and Wolfowitz are from rival political parties but are friends of Anwar. They asserted in their article that the new sodomy charge had been trumped up.

The duo implicitly urged the Barack Obama administration - which, unlike previous administrations, has steered clear of mentioning Anwar - to exert pressure in ensuring a fair trial.