An NGO has distanced itself from electoral reform group Bersih because it says the latter is more interested on promoting former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad than focusing on its main struggle.

In declaring its stand, Otai Reformasi 1998 said Bersih has deviated from its original agenda

"We began to cast doubt on the role played by Bersih lately as it had strayed away from its original goal in ensuring transparent elections.

"The way we see it, Bersih now is promoting Mahathir as its icon and idol to topple Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak,” said its secretary Abdul Razak Ismail.

"So, we remain doubtful about the role of Bersih. I don't see it making (any) demands in the Citizens' Declaration,” he said at a press conference.

Also present were Youth Movement Solidariti Anak Muda Malaysia (SAMM) chief Badrul Hisham Shaharin and representatives of Jingga 13.

The Citizens' Declaration, launched by Mahathir, had garnered a million signatures, but former opposition leader Anwar Ibrahim in a letter had cautioned PKR of the danger of working with Mahathir.

The controversial eight-page letter was uploaded on Facebook by Penang PKR Youth wing.

Abdul Razak also took a swipe at PKR Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, saying the letter was not an "internal matter" as claimed by Wan Azizah.

In fact, he said, the letter showed that Pakatan Harapan and the people, including activists, should be cautious about the declaration and its campaign to save the country.

"The letter was meant for all, warning them about how cunning Mahathir can be,” he added.

"In our opinion, the letter is meant to be dedicated to Harapan leaders and the people to digest," he added.

Former Bersih chairperson Ambiga Sreenevasan defended the Citizens' Declaraion, vowing to support the document despite Anwar's criticisms.

The declaration's main objective is to gather one milion signatures and submit it to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.