Malaysian PM refuses to quit, says he will contest UMNO leadership post

The Associated Press ,  Kuala Lumpur   |  Mon, 04/14/2008 9:31 PM  |  World

Malaysia's prime minister Abdullah Badawi said Monday he will seek re-election as the ruling party leader this year, defying critics and dissidents who want him to resign immediately in the ake of massive election losses.

Abdullah reiterated that he will hand over power eventually to his deputy, Najib Razak, but not before party elections in December, to ensure a smooth transition. The party president normally becomes prime minister.

"Of course I want the transfer to be smooth. That's vey important. I do not want to leave the party in a state of chaos. I would not say "Najib, good luck. That's your problem, not mine.' That's not the way," Abdullah said.

He was speaking to reporters after meeting with party members to discuss plans after March 8 general elections in which the ruling Naonal Front coalition suffered its worst losses in history.

The coalition, led by Abdullah's United Malays National Organization party, lost its traditional two-thirds majority in Parliament, conceding an unprecedented 82 seats in the 222-member house to the opposition. The Front also lost five state legislatures.

Although party members rallied around Abdullah immediately after the elections, many are now grumbling openly and calling on him to step down. Abdullah acknowledged that some in the party are upset with him.

"There are some who say (I should quit) as soon as possible. There are some who say 'not so much in a hurry.' Let me just listen. I have two ears. I am not deaf," Abdullah said.

Abdullah's statements indicate that he realizes his days in office are numbered although he says he won't quit "suddenly."

He said his plan is to first contest the post of UMNO president during the party's annual general assembly in December with Najib contesting the post of deputy president.

"Why shouldn't I contest? You tell me," Abdullah said.

After the elections, he said, he and Najib "will consider matters relating to the transfer."

Asked whether transfer of power will be completed by next year or by 2010 he said: "I cannot reveal that to you, sorry."

Abdullah noted that even his predecessor, Mahathir Mohamad, gave himself more than a year in office after announcing his intention to retire. Mahathir is one of those calling for his immediate resignation.

Other senior leaders of the party have complained that the succession plan revealed so far by Abdullah is too vague. (****)

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