Mahathir Quits Malaysia's Ruling UMNO Party, Protesting Corruption
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – Malaysia's former premier Mahathir Mohamad said Monday he is quitting the ruling United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) party, as it is being seen as "supporting corruption" under Prime Minister Najib Razak's leadership.
Mahathir, Malaysia's longest-serving leader, remains a highly respected and influential figure and has become the fiercest critic of Najib, who is facing pressure over a graft scandal surrounding state fund 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB).
"I won't call it UMNO anymore, this is Najib's party. I feel embarrassed that I am associated with a party that is seen as supporting corruption - it had caused me to feel ashamed," he told reporters at a press conference, Reuters reported.
But the leader said he would not set up a new party or join any other party.
