PM’s Office explains why Mukhriz had to go

Loss of support from assemblymen stemmed from lack of confidence in his leadership, both as Menteri Besar and state party leader, it says.

PETALING JAYA: Mukhriz Mahathir had to resign as Kedah Menteri Besar because he had lost the support of the majority of his state assemblymen, the Prime Minister’s Office explained today.

In a two-paragraph statement, the PM’s Office said the loss of support stemmed from the lack of confidence in his leadership, both as Menteri Besar and state party leader.

It also came on the heels of concern that better preparations were needed to retain Kedah in the 14th General Election, it said.

“The Prime Minister believes that the party and government must be disciplined and work together as a united team to combat the economic and security challenges Malaysia currently faces, and to deliver on the promises made at the last general election when Barisan Nasional was given a mandate by the people.”

Kedah Umno, it added, had demonstrated its support for such principles of party unity and discipline.

Earlier today, Mukhriz announced his resignation as the Kedah MB, bringing an end to a leadership crisis that had plagued the state for two weeks.

At a press conference, the son of former premier Dr Mahathir Mohamad cited his criticisms of 1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB) and the RM2.6 billion donation controversy as among the factors as to why he was pressured to step down.

Kedah Umno deputy liaison committee chief Ahmad Bashah Md Hanipah has been named as Mukhriz’s successor and will take his oath of office tomorrow.