Journalists watch a live broadcast of a televised speech by Malaysian Interim Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad outside the National Palace in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Feb. 26, 2020. Malaysia's interim Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad broke his silence on Wednesday since resignation, saying that he was willing to return to power if there was sufficient support for him to establish a non-partisan government that only prioritizes the interest of the country. (Xinhua/Zhu Wei)
KUALA LUMPUR, Feb. 26 (Xinhua) -- Malaysia's interim Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad broke his silence Wednesday since resignation, saying that he was willing to return to power if there was sufficient support for him to establish a non-partisan government that only prioritizes the interest of the country.
In his first public address since resigning on Monday, Mahathir said there were "many reasons" behind his resignation, but specifically brushing off accusations that he was not willing to give up his position and that he being being crazy on power.
"To me that power and position is 'a means to an end' or a tool to achieve the objective. And our objective is of course for the good of the country," said the 94-year-old said in a televised speech.
He has promised to resign to give an opportunity to the lower house of parliament to pick the one to replace him. "If it's true that I am still supported, I will return. Otherwise I will accept whoever is chosen," he said.
Mahathir called on Members of Parliament (MPs) to support him as individuals across party lines to serve the country.
Mahathir called on the politics and political parties need to be set aside for now. "If it is allowed, I will try to have a government that is not in favor of any party. Only the interests of the nation will be prioritized," he said.
Mahathir led the Pakatan Harapan coalition to power after winning the general elections in May 2018. He abruptly resigned on Monday following rumors of the forming of new ruling collation involves multiple parties.
Malaysia's King Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah accepted Mahathir's resignation but appointed him as the interim prime minister.
