Dr M says ‘no’ to joining other political parties

Former premier says he only believes in Umno's struggles and not those of Opposition parties.

SHAH ALAM: Dr Mahathir Mohamad has given a resounding “no” to the possibility of him joining any Opposition political party even though he is no longer with Umno.

Speaking at a press conference at the Proton Centre of Excellence here today, the former premier said, “I don’t subscribe to their (the Opposition) views and struggles. I subscribe only to the struggles of Umno but of course, it is now Najib’s personal party.”

Mahathir was referring to Umno President Najib Razak, who is also the country’s prime minister.

He told reporters that his heart however remained with the ruling Malay party, and should Najib step down one day, or be ousted from the post of party president, he might consider rejoining Umno.

When asked about his thoughts on the possibility of suspended Umno Deputy President Muhyiddin Yassin challenging Najib in the future, Mahathir only said that as a member of Umno, Muhyiddin had every right to challenge his president and added, “If he wants to challenge (Najib), then by all means.”

Mahathir yesterday announced that he and his wife Siti Hasmah Ali had quit Umno as a sign of protest against Najib’s administration.

Pledging to continue exposing Najib’s wrongdoings, Mahathir said, “I don’t want to see the country managed by a person who has done a lot of wrong things.”

-FMT NEWS-