The Prime Minister of Malaysia, Mahathir Mohamad, unexpectedly resigned from his position on Monday. He also quit the Bersatu Party he had formed shortly before the 2018 polls. On the same day, Mahathir’s party also quit the ruling coalition.
While his resignation has taken effect, the country’s monarch has asked him to stay on as interim premier until a successor is appointed. The king accepted Mahathir’s resignation after a meeting, Chief Secretary Mohd Zuki Ali said in a statement.
“However, His Highness has given his assent to appoint Mahathir Mohamad as interim prime minister, while waiting for the appointment of the new prime minister. Hence until then, (Mahathir) will manage the country’s affairs until a new prime minister and cabinet are appointed,” Mohd Zuki said.
How Did Malaysia Get Here?
While Mahathir did not explain the reason for his resignation, FP reports there was a series of meetings during the weekend between some members of his coalition and the opposition about forming a new government. Mahathir was reportedly attempting to form a new ruling coalition that would exclude his promised successor, Anwar Ibrahim.
What Was Mahathir’s Promise to Anwar?
In a bid to win the 2018 elections, Mahathir formed a coalition with his longtime rival, Anwar Ibrahim. Their coalition included a pre-election agreement that 72-year old Anwar would eventually take over from Mahathir. This deal appears to be far from taking any effect as Mahathir has resisted setting a specific timeline for handing power over to Anwar.
Where Does Malaysia Go From Here?
Constitutionally, any lawmaker who can command a majority in parliament can stake a claim to form the government. As interim PM, Mr Mahathir can go ahead and stake his chances of forming a government outside of Anwar and his former coalition members. Also, there is no limit to his terms as Interim PM, this puts him at an advantage to appoint cabinet members and a little time to form a new government.
If no one is able to form a simple majority of 112 in parliament and Mahathir does not opt to form a new coalition, a fresh election would be the next option.
