SHAH ALAM – Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad is calling it a day, as far as being prime minister is concerned.
In a brief hi-tea session with voters here, the Pejuang chairman made clear that it was time he made way for younger candidates to helm the federal administration.
“I have been (prime minister) twice. Let’s give somebody else a chance. I can serve as an advisor.”
The 97-year-old, who is also the incumbent Langkawi MP, was responding to a member of the public who pleaded with him to head the country again.
Dr Mahathir’s latest statement puts to bed any speculation that he harbours any interest in returning to Putrajaya’s hot seat.
Previously, he said on several occasions that he did not discount the possibility of taking the post for a third time – if push comes to shove and there were no other candidates on hand.
Dr Mahathir had already served as prime minister on two occasions – the first between 1981 and 2003, and the second from 2018 to 2020, when he led Pakatan Harapan to a historic victory against Barisan Nasional.
Later in a press conference, Dr Mahathir reiterated his stance that he would never return to Umno, whatever the circumstances may be in the future.
This, he said, was because corruption is deeply ingrained in the party, including at the grassroots level, when asked if he would consider rejoining should Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi step down.
“The objective of Umno is to serve the people, country, and religion. But they now serve cash, and they want to release (certain individuals) from prison.
“Their objective is no longer the Umno of before. That’s why I cannot go back.”
Separately, Dr Mahathir said he sees his new party Pejuang performing well in several of the parliamentary constituencies it is contesting in the general election, including seats in Selangor.
“I hope to retain Langkawi. I also feel that Datuk Amiruddin Hamzah will win in my former seat of Kubang Pasu and I think Datuk Seri Mukhriz Mahathir can win (in Jerlun). Pejuang can also win in many other places,” he said, referring to the parliamentary seats in Kedah.
However, he admitted the response towards Pejuang in a number of constituencies remained lukewarm, with further efforts required to gain support.
Meanwhile, Dr Mahathir said his Gerakan Tanah Air coalition will reveal its manifesto tomorrow, but stopped short on details for the announcement.
“The core thrust (of the manifesto) is we want to get rid of corruption and to bring all criminals to justice.” – The Vibes, November 9, 2022
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