Don't talk about transition, carry on working - Rafidah

Malaysians should stop talking about the transition of power from Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad to his designated successor Anwar Ibrahim, as the protracted debate has led to uncertainty in the country.

National Economic Action Council member Rafidah Aziz said this during an economic discourse at the Perdana Leadership Foundation in Putrajaya today.

"All of us should not be preoccupied with the transition," she said.

"I must tell you, let us stop talking about the transition issue, because the people out there – the investors, the potential business partners – are not sure where we are heading.

"The transition (of power) problem has been identified as one of the causes of uncertainty."

Rafidah stressed that the prime minister needs to carry on as he needs years to implement policies, and that the government should get on with the business of governing.

"Of course Mahathir said he is not going to be there forever. We are not telling you (to be there) until 100 years old. We are just saying don't talk about it, carry on," she said.

"Having a 94-year-old talking about the issue is like children hearing their parents speaking about how long they can live."

Furthermore, Rafidah said, it is not up to others to decide how long the prime minister should stay in office.

When met later, Rafidah declined to respond if Mahathir should serve a full term.

In January 2018, Harapan announced that Mahathir would be the seventh prime minister should it come into power and that Anwar would replace him. However, no time frame was set for the transition.

Mahathir, who has repeatedly said he will keep his promise to hand over the reins to Anwar, stated this year that he needs two more years to implement Harapan's policies.

Bersatu leaders are urging Mahathir to stay until the end of his term in office.

A coalition of NGOs led by Bersih today urged Mahathir to announce a clear date – sometime between a year from now and May 9, 2021 – and plan for the transition.

RELATED REPORTS

Many more priorities than flying car, says Rafidah

Race and religion - Rafidah cautions gov't against bowing to narrow-minded groups

‘Can’t force everyone to learn calligraphy’ - Rafidah weighs in on khat

Set clear transition date and plan - Bersih & Co tell PM in open letter

Why a handover date is important

Yoursay: Dr M has no intention of handing over power to Anwar

Azmin explains backing Dr M to remain in power, denies knowledge of meeting