Veteran newsman A Kadir Jasin warned that Najib Abdul Razak's backers will be dragged down with the prime minister when his day of reckoning arrives.

"For those who feel they are powerful, strong and protected, remember that power does not last forever.

"It will not be just the prime minister who will be held responsible when the chips are down.

"All those who conspired, collaborated and benefited will be dragged down together," he said in a blog posting today.

The former New Straits Times Press group chief editor was commenting on the various scandals plaguing Najib, including the RM2.6 billion that made it into his personal bank accounts.

Najib denied any wrongdoing and was cleared by the Attorney-General's Chambers.

Kadir noted that the opposition could easily sit back and watch BN dig its own grave but has instead been open to certain elements in the ruling coalition to force Najib out of power.

"They want to save Malaysia and its people before it is too late.

"They are of the opinion that if they wait until the next election, it may be too late and Malaysia cannot be salvaged even if they win," he said.

Kadir said the best hope hinges on the few Umno and BN MPs who still have "self-worth" and a conscience.

"They know that they no longer represent the people. They do not even represent Umno and BN members any more.

"They only represent Najib and his exclusive group," he said.

Kadir also called for a mass movement to "Save Malaysia", taking note of a rumoured effort by Umno veteran Tengku Razaleigh Hamzah to seek a vote of no-confidence against Najib.

He added that the Conference of Rulers has also become increasingly vocal against Najib.

"What we need now is for every person who cares and loves the country to rise up peacefully and with civility to state that immediate change must happen.

"Every face, known and respected, regardless of age, occupation, skill, race, or religion, must find courage together to save the country," he said.