I CANNOT help but harbour a deep suspicion that there is a link between the
                  delay in carrying out the arsenic poisoning tests involving former deputy prime
                  minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and the rioting that took place at the
                  National Mosque last Sunday.

                  I cannot ascertain whether the delay is intentional, but the Universiti
                  Kebangsaan Malaysia Hospital had, in its past statements, assured the public
                  that the results would be ready in a week and that Anwar was in good
                  condition.

                  However, when the sodomy trial resumed for hearing on Monday, the court was
                  informed that the tests had not been completed and the accused was not well.

                  The credibility of the hospital's doctors is at stake now because of this; I fear
                  some quarters may even accuse them of being supporters of Anwar.

                  To further arouse my suspicion, Anwar, who had lodged a police report over the
                  alleged arsenic poisoning, had refused to co-operate with the police when he
                  was requested to provide samples of hair and urine.

                  And this leads me to conclude that there is a deliberate attempt to delay the
                  completion of the tests to determine whether Anwar was poisoned.

                  The delay has inevitably affected the on-going sodomy trial that has been
                  postponed for another week.

                  The arsenic poisoning allegation is a serious matter and cannot be taken
                  lightly. A human life is involved and yet the hospital's doctors are not taking the
                  situation seriously.

                  In such a situation, the relevant authorities must not only conduct a thorough
                  investigation to determine whether the allegation is true but should also do it
                  fast so as not to endanger human lives.

                  Everyone involved must extend full co-operation, failing which they can be
                  accused of deliberately trying to undermine the process of investigation.

                  At the same time, opposition parties should not take advantage of the situation
                  by organising illegal rallies to garner public sympathy.

                  There should not be any more delays to complete the tests. It is hoped that the
                  hospital will not come out with another statement this week to say that the
                  report is still not ready and Anwar is not fit to attend the trial.

                  Then the people will definitely come to the conclusion that the hospital is either
                  inefficient or working with the accused to delay the trial.

                  Patrick of Kuala Lumpur writes: