Dr M: DAP has toned down, PAS a disappointment

Former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad said DAP has "changed" and "toned down" because of political realities.

"It's not my perception (of them) that has changed. They have changed," Mahathir told Sinar Harian in an interview published today.

Mahathir said DAP used to be a Chinese-centric party but that had slowly changed due to demographics.

"They know that they can't win without the Malays, hence they have toned down with their demands.

"We said we can't accept the UEC (Unified Examination Certificate). Despite DAP's appeals, eventually they accepted.

"Many DAP policies have changed. Hence it's not just about my perception. It's only when you get close to them that we know their stand.

"I realised that many in DAP are aware that they cannot succeed without Malay support," said Mahathir.

As for PAS, Mahathir said the party was wrong for using religion as a political tool.

"Although they (claim to) support me, I'm not satisfied because they still think that non-PAS people are not Islamic.

"This is (my biggest) disappointment when it comes to PAS," said Mahathir.

He added that PAS also betrayed him by initially pledging support for him to continue as prime minister but eventually supporting Muhyiddin Yassin.

"What does this mean? They say one thing and do another. It's very disappointing. They don't uphold Islamic teachings.

"When we make a promise we must keep it," said Mahathir.

Prior to the "Sheraton Move" on Feb 23, there was intense speculation that Umno was stitching an alliance with Bersatu.

At the time, PAS had vowed to table a motion of confidence to support Mahathir as prime minister for a full term. - Mkini