This led several party leaders, including Kelantan Umno Youth chief Rujhan Salleh, to warn him not to politicise the resignation issue.

Mahathir announced his retirement plans in June this year. The 76-year-old statesman said he would step down as prime minister and Umno president next October, and named Deputy Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi as his successor.

Ibrahim was told that if his division proceeds with the meet, it will be interpreted as questioning Abdullah's ability.