The inking of the Citizens' Declaration witnessed a congregation of strange bedfellows as political foes set aside feuds for the aim of removing Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak.

Among those whose presence at the venue raised eyebrows was Perkasa chief Ibrahim Ali, who has never concealed his disdain for DAP, whose leader Lim Kit Siang was among the signatories.

In an exclusive interview with Malaysiakini , the firebrand politician explained the reasons for attending the event as well as not signing the declaration.

He said the public cannot separate him from Perkasa.

"The signatories may have done so as individuals but in this social media era, there's a possibility people may misinterpret my action," he said.

Ibrahim said although Perkasa is not a political outfit, the NGO has always championed the issues mentioned in the declaration, which included reforming key institutions and agencies.

"We (Perkasa) strove to champion these issues for a long time and would continue to do so," he said.

The Perkasal leader also revealed that he attended the event because he was invited by former premier Dr Mahathir Mohamad, who initiated the cross-political alliance.

However, the former Pasir Mas MP said he did not enter the hall where the signing took place as he had arrived late following a flight delay from Kota Baru.

"By the time I arrived, the event was about to conclude. The small hall was already packed and I was unable to enter. So I waited at the lobby," he added.

Asked about the reaction of Perkasa members to his presence at the event, Ibrahim claimed that it was not an issue for them.

"I attended the event as a gesture of respect for Mahathir. I am close to him, Tun (Mahathir) has attended numerous Perkasa events.

"When he invites me, I would attend. But I told (him) that I cannot sign because I want to safeguard Perkasa's name and avoid misunderstandings," he added.

Last week's declaration was endorsed by 45 individuals, including politicians and NGO leaders who were once critical of one another.

Yesterday, Mahathir in an attempt to assuage the anger among Umno circles regarding him joining hands with DAP, said that the alliance was among citizens.

He added that these individuals had come together to save the nation, and can resume their political bickering when democracy is restored.