Pejuang names Dr Mahathir as PM candidate

KUALA LUMPUR – Pejuang has named its founder, 95-year-old Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad, as its prime minister candidate.

Deputy president Datuk Marzuki Yahya told The Vibes that the matter was discussed at a meeting today.

“Yes. It was proposed and agreed on in view of the current political situation, including the failure of Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to present (evidence that he has) enough support (among MPs) to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.

“That includes weak governance and abuse of power by those in the administration.”

He said the Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin-led Perikatan Nasional government is too engrossed in politicking, and has provided no clear direction for the country amid the Covid-19 pandemic.

Abu Bakar Yahya, the political secretary to Dr Mahathir, earlier announced on Facebook that Pejuang’s pro-tem committee has unanimously agreed to nominate the two-time prime minister for the top job once more.

“Pejuang’s pro-tem committee members have unanimously decided that Dr Mahathir is our candidate to replace the current prime minister pending the next general election, if the country wants to be saved.”

Five Pejuang MPs, including Dr Mahathir, on Thursday filed a motion of no confidence against Muhyiddin, calling for it to be tabled when the next parliamentary session begins on November 2.

The move came two days after Anwar had an audience with the Agong to show he has majority support to form a new government.

At a press conference following the meeting, the PKR president said he has “more than 120” lawmakers backing him.

However, Istana Negara issued a statement later, saying Anwar did not present the names of parliamentarians in his corner.

Gua Musang MP Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah also had an audience with the ruler on Tuesday, offering to resolve the political crisis as a neutral party. – The Vibes, October 17, 2020