ENTRY 2: The Resignation

This picture is taken when he announced his resignation during Perhimpunan Agung Umno at PWTC

On 22nd of June 2003, Dr. Mahathir Mohamad announced his retirement which has given a shock not just to the nation, but even to Mahathir's closest party and family members. The bizarre display of tears, exhortations, and hysteria that followed led more skeptical Malaysians, as well as international observers, to speculate that perhaps Mahathir, who has always used his flair for dramatics to his political advantage, was simply trying to shore up support for his regime. THEY WERE WRONG. According to reports, Mahathir was persuaded, during intense backroom efforts by party leadership, to stay in office until October 2003 instead of immediately resigning. The compromise gives his hand-picked successor,Deputy Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi, a 16-month transition position.

Mahathir has made clear to Bernama (July 7) that he does not intend to bow out completely. He said he would speak at various forums and as spokeman for the many good ideas in Malaysa.