COMMENT Dr Mahathir Mohamad’s role as promoter of the Citizens’ Declaration (referred to hereafter as CD) and the Save Malaysia Movement has drawn a mixed reception from civil society.

Some view him as the devil incarnate, equating working with him to “supping with the devil” and pointing out that “not making good on promises has long been Mahathir’s hallmark.” Some question whether he is “seeking to exploit public discontent purely to further his own political agenda ” and point out that “he is no democrat and he has never pretended to be one.”

On the other side, others urge that a “ united front is needed to unseat PM Najib” and that we should “utilise Dr Mahathir’s considerable political skills, acumen and clout”. Still others urge that “ forging alliances in a time of political impasse” is essential.