KUALA LUMPUR – Two-time former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad is not discounting the possibility of him resuming the post for a third time – if push comes to shove and there are no other candidates on hand.
Speaking during a Gerakan Tanah Air (GTA) forum in Bangi today, the coalition’s pro-tem chairman said that while he would enjoy some rest while providing guidance to the group, incessant appeals for him to helm the prime ministerial title once again might sway him.
“I would prefer to rest while playing an advisory role (to GTA) but if they keep urging me, it would be hard for me to think about myself.
“So if they keep urging me until there is no one else, I will accept,” Dr Mahathir, who is also Pejuang chairman, said with a chuckle when asked about his willingness to assume the mantle again.
However, the Langkawi MP said he would only hold on to the position for “maybe just one year” instead of a full term.
“I did not form GTA to become the prime minister for the third time, that was never my intention.
“I just want to ensure that policies, which help the Malays, are implemented by a caring government that loves its race, nation and religion,” said the 97-year-old
Following his first stint as prime minister from 1981 to 2003, Dr Mahathir is the only person in Malaysia to assume the role for a second time as he was appointed prime minister in 2018 when he led Pakatan Harapan to a historic victory against Barisan Nasional.
On August 4, Dr Mahathir announced the establishment of GTA, a coalition he said was aimed at strengthening the Malays, especially in the economic field.
For a start, GTA comprises Pejuang, Iman (National Indian Muslim Alliance Party), Berjasa (Parti Barisan Jemaah Islamiah Se-Malaysia) and Putra (Parti Bumiputera Perkasa Malaysia) – and is open to participation from non-governmental organisations, individuals, academics and professional groups among the Malay community. – The Vibes, September 24, 2022
