Dr Mahathir Mohamad's criticism against Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak is nothing new, as the former premier had been criticised himself, said an Umno leader.

Hishammuddin Hussein said his father, former prime minister Hussein Onn had also criticised Mahathir back in the day.

"Nothing new, we've been through it before [...] there was a time when my father had criticised Mahathir, (there is) no difference," Hishammuddin said today.

However he  did not clarify what exactly Hussein ( right ) had said about Mahathir, who was his deputy at one point.

Mahathir is currently on the warpath in an apparent bid to force Najib out as prime minister.

Among the issues he has raised are 1Malaysia Development Berhad’s debts, and the murder of Mongolian Altantuya Shaariibuu.

Hishammuddin however feels Mahathir’s concerns are his own personal views, which can be dealt with.

“I personally feel we are able to deal with whatever perceptions people have,” the Umno vice-president said.

He added that Mahathir’s onslaught will not affect BN’s chances in the Rompin by-election.

“The party’s struggle and the by-election are not affected by the criticisms of one individual,” Hishammuddin said.

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