Asia

No-confidence motion against PM Muhyiddin unlikely to succeed, says Mahathir

adminMarch 11, 20201 Mins read81 Views

KUALA LUMPUR: Dr Mahathir Mohamad has indicated that Pakatan Harapans (PH) attempt to table a no-confidence motion against Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin in parliament was unlikely to succeed.

Mr Muhyiddin could stay in office until the next general election, Dr Mahathir also said, according to a Sinar Harian report.

“Now that he is the government, he can afford to offer inducements to many,” said Dr Mahathir in an interview on Tuesday (Mar 10).

“I found that some of my supporters have been made ministers, so they switched sides.”

Malaysia's Prime Minister Muhyiddin Yassin. (Photo: Bernama)

Dr Mahathir said that he was earlier backed by 114 lawmakers, out of the 222 seats in the House. But this number has been declining.

"Even if we mooted the vote of no-confidence (against the prime minister) in parliament, it may not succeed. This is because he had taken those who used to take my side.

"Of course, when he offers (lawmakers) to be ministers, it would be difficult for people to refuse. I can't offer anything."

Dr Mahathir resigned on Feb 24 as Mr Muhyiddin pulled Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia out of PH, sparking political turmoil in Malaysia.

A palace statement on Feb 29 said the king has found that the parliamentarian who likely commands the majority is Mr Muhyiddin, the Pagoh Member of Parliament.