KUALA LUMPUR, March 6 – Leaders from across the Malaysia’s political spectrum to join and signed a declaration seeking to remove scandal-hit premier Najib Razak, in a dramatic escalation of a festering political crisis. The alliance brought together previously bitter political foes and was led by former premier Mahathir Mohamad, who has spearheaded calls to remove Najib over allegations of corruption and misrule.
Meanwhile, there were also 58 people had also signed a declaration which pledging to remove Najib as Prime Minister through legal and non-violent means. In the meantime, they had also pledged to take action against those who associated with or covered up for the prime minister.
“We call upon all Malaysians, irrespective of race, religion, political situation, creed or parties, young and old, to join us in saving Malaysia from the government headed by Najib Razak,” read a joint statement endorsed by heavyweights from the ruling party, opposition, and top civil society groups.
“Though some signatories were keen to garner more public support to force Najib’s resignation, I was not keen to hit the streets as it was against Malaysian law. You cannot protest in the country, you can only protest in your house,” said Dr Mahathir. The signatories however, have agreed to participate in a gathering on March 27 to drum up public support.
The Malaysian government released a statement later in the day that said the move by Mahathir demonstrated the depth of his “desperation”. In additional, the statement also said today that Mahathir and his former enemies have demonstrated the depth of their political opportunism and desperation. It also added that there is an existing mechanism to change the Government and Prime Minister.
“It’s called a general election. And it is the only mechanism that is lawful, democratic and fulfills the people’s will. In 2013, the Malaysian people expressed their will and elected the current government, lead by PM Najib. If Mahathir wants to change the Government, he must follow democratic process and await the next election, in line with Malaysia’s laws and Federal Constitution,” the statement said.
