In this second of a two-part interview, axed New Straits Times editor-in-chief and maverick politician told malaysiakini that new Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi would want to stay for at least two terms in office.

Malaysiakini: How will Umno fare in the coming elections?

Abdullah:

Kelantan is sure to be retained by PAS, and Terengganu will be retained by PAS too. The question is Kedah. If PAS captured Kedah, the centre will be nearer, if it fails to do that, it may be temporarily held back.

But right now, if you are to ask me, Umno has the edge in Kedah. It still 50-50, (ex-premier) Dr Mahathir (Mohamad) had admitted to that, and I say I am uncomfortable because there is no top Umno leadership in Kedah now. Before you have (first prime minister) Tunku Abdul Rahman, Dr Mahathir, then (former finance minister) Daim (Zainuddin). Now who?