It appears that Dr Mahathir Mohamad does not possess full confidence in Muhyiddin Yassin to become the next prime minister.

Mahathir said there are many in Umno who are more qualified than the deputy prime minister to replace Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak.

However, he pointed out, based on convention, the number two takes over when the prime minister steps down.

 

"I don't wish to hurt anybody's feelings. Based on tradition, it is the deputy who is qualified (to replace Najib).

"But there are other leaders who are more qualified.

"When based on tradition, it is better for the deputy to take over," Mahathir told a media conference after a delivering a speech toUniversiti Sains Malaysia (USM) students in Penang.

Muhyiddin has largely been silent whenever Najib takes a beating from the public, more so since Mahathir began his campaign to unseat the prime minister earlier this month.

Thus far, Muhyiddin has been sending mixed signals on whether he backs his boss.

He took a different position from Najib on how 1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB) should be investigated.

But when Mahathir began calling for Najib's oustre, Muhyiddin said the premier should be given a chance to implement his reforms.