Dr Mahathir Mohamad's decision to make a double appearance at the 34-hour Bersih 4 over the weekend has courted brickbats from Umno leaders.

In a blog posting today, the former premier responds to the questions and criticisms.

"Many are asking if I am now a Bersih supporter, do I support DAP and (Lim) Kit Siang.

"Some have also asked if I am now favouring the Chinese," he said.

According to Mahathir, he does not agree with street demonstrations because there are other channels which can be used to pressure the government when it abuses power.

However, he said in the case of Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak, the other channels have been blocked.

"We can make police reports in the hope that the police and public prosecutors will take action and haul the accused to court.

"But Najib has dissolved these institutions that are tasked to protect the rakyat," he said.

Mahathir pointed out to the special task force that was investigating the RM2.6 billion deposited into Najib's personal bank accounts and the Public Accounts Committee which was investigating 1MDB.

Both of the investigations have ceased with key investigators or officials transferred or replaced.

"Therefore I was forced to join the street demonstrations organised by Bersih calling for Najib to be ousted due to corruption," he said.

Back no-confidence vote against Najib, Dr M implores Umno, BN MPs

Umno veteran: Najib pushed Dr M into going for Bersih 4

In the aftermath of Bersih 4

TalentCorp: We failed to attract most M'sians home

Wait for DBKL's cleaning bill, Rahman tells Bersih

Persuasion has become key

Prove you're not afraid of colour yellow, Najib told

Judge to recuse herself from Anwar's pardon case

S'wak DAP: Why fear urging Najib to resign?

S'gor Umno told to move effectively as opposition