Malaysian PM Hangs On Despite Losing Ally's Support

Muhyiddin Yassin remains Malaysia's prime minister despite a key coalition partner withdrawing its support for him, Attorney General Idrus Harun said in a statement on Thursday, Kyodo News reported.

The United Malays National Organization (UMNO), the largest party in the National Alliance ruling coalition, plunged the country into another round of political uncertainty when it announced early Thursday morning, after a marathon meeting of its top leadership, it was ending its backing for Muhyiddin.

UMNO demanded that Muhyiddin resign due to his failure to contain the COVID-19 pandemic and lift the economy. Although UMNO President Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has announced the party's decision to oust Muhyiddin, UMNO lawmakers have remained silent so far.

Citing the Constitution, Idrus said only lawmakers from the lower house of parliament can determine the fate of the leadership.

"At this moment, the government does not have clear facts to show that the prime minister does not command the confidence of the majority of the House of

Representatives members of parliament," Idrus said. “Thus, legally, the prime minister and the current Cabinet remain intact to continue exercising executive power," he added.

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