The Umno Supreme Council has no authority to decide on positions held by former premier Dr Mahathir Mohamad in government-linked companies and agencies, said outspoken council member Shahrir Samad.

Instead, he said the decision should lie with the Prime Minister or the government because the council can only discuss the position of Mahathir, a former Umno president, within the party.

Thus, it is unlikely that the council will discuss Mahathir's position as advisor to Petronas, Proton and the Langkawi Development Board (Lada) in its meeting this Thursday, he added.

"I don't see this Thursday meeting as one that will discuss Dr Mahathir's position in government-owned companies. It's just a monthly council meeting," said Shahrir when contacted today.

Of late, several Umno leaders have called for Mahathir to be stripped of his advisory positions, for his string of criticism against the government and Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi.

Among them includes Kedah Menteri Besar Mahadzir Khalid, Kedah Umno youth chief Mohd Rawi Abdul Hamid and Terengganu Umno youth chief Mohd Sabri Alwi.

PM consults cabinet

Shahrir adds that even though Abdullah has the power to relinquish Mahathir of the posts, the opinions of other cabinet members would normally be considered.

"This is because Mahathir's previously held positions of the former premier and Umno president must be taken into consideration before a decision is made," he said.

Meanwhile, Ranau division Umno head Masidi Manjun said the supreme council can recommend that cabinet drop Mahathir from the post concerned.

"This is because Mahathir is an Umno member which means Umno has authority over him" he adds.

However, he said the Abdullah has the full authority to determine Mahathir's fate in the government agencies and organisations.