Bersatu rejects Dr M's resignation

LIVE | Malaysiakini brings you live updates on the developing situation following a flurry of political movements yesterday.

Thank you for following Malaysiakini's live report

This wraps up Malaysiakini's coverage of the political manoeuvrings to oust the Pakatan Harapan government for today. Stay tuned tomorrow.

If you like our reporting, support independent media by subscribing to Malaysiakini for as low as RM0.55 a day. Details here.

---

Supporters belt out party anthem as Bersatu leaders exit 

11.40pm: About 100 Bersatu supporters are gathered outside the headquarters awaiting the leaders who are having a meeting upstairs.

When Bersatu Youth chief Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman exited the building, he was surrounded by his supporters who started shouting and pushing against the press in order to carve a path to Saddiq’s car for him, causing a small ruckus.

Despite attempts to question him about what transpired in the meeting, he remained tight-lipped.

The supporters burst into the party anthem shortly after he left.

They also kept chanting “Hidup Tun” (Long live Tun) throughout their wait. At one point, a few of them also half-heartedly and jokingly shouted “Hidup PD” believed to be referring to Port Dickson MP Anwar Ibrahim.

About half an hour later, Bersatu President Muhyiddin Yassin left the building as the supporters sang the party anthem again.

When asked by the reporters, he merely said Bersatu secretary-general Marzuki Yahya will issue a statement soon. 

---

Umno MPs hint they might go to palace tomorrow 

11:30pm: Most BN and PAS leaders have left Riverside Cafe at PWTC.

Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi departed without being seen.

Umno Kuala Krau MP Ismail Said hints that there could be orders to head to Istana Negara.

“We came (tonight) to discuss.

“If we get the instructions, we will go,” he tells the media.

Pasir Salak MP Tajuddin Abdul Rahman (above) hints the same.

“Possible,” he says briefly when asked if Umno MPs will head to the national palace tomorrow.

“Not only Umno,” he adds.

Meanwhile, MCA president Wee Ka Siong (below) said he attended tonight’s meeting to keep abreast with political developments.

“I can only confirm I am here to observe what really happened. We don’t know. The situation is very fluid.

“If (we) go for election, we (are) prepared for that,” he says. 

---

Bersatu rejects Dr M's resignation as party chairperson

11.25pm: The Bersatu supreme council has rejected Mahathir's resignation as party chairperson, according to sources.

They also resolved to fully support Mahathir as prime minister, and for MPs to voice their support when meeting the King tomorrow.

It is understood that they did not discuss Anwar.

When met after the meeting, supreme council member Rafiq Naizamohideen confirmed that Mahathir's resignation was rejected, and that party leaders would be meeting the interim prime minister tomorrow.

"Tomorrow morning, there will be a personal meeting between the supreme council and Tun at his home... We will try to arrange it," he says.

He says that the party wants Mahathir to lead the party and the country to greater heights.

However, he declined to say why the interim prime minister had resigned as Bersatu chairperson, saying "that is very personal, we can't disclose it".

---

'Wait and see', Hadi says, as Najib flashes a smile

10:10pm: PAS President Abdul Hadi Awang is surrounded by security detail as he leaves Riverside Cafe, PWTC.

“Let us wait and see what is the next development,” Hadi (below) says briefly when approached by the media.

PAS Youth Chief Nik Mohamad Abduh Nik Aziz is also seen leaving the venue. He is similarly coy about the reason for tonight’s dinner meeting with Umno leaders.

Former prime minister Najib Abdul Razak is next to emerge.

He smiles when faced by a barrage of questions from the press.

“I’m not giving any statement today,” Najib says with a wide grin.

MIC deputy president M Saravanan also makes his way out of the venue.

“We leave it to the BN president (to announce).

“We are just getting ready for tomorrow,” Saravanan says when asked why he came tonight.

---

Azmin's aide enters Bersatu HQ

9.40pm: Azmin Ali’s political secretary Hilman Idham was spotted entering the building.

Hilman, who is also PKR’s Gombak Setia assemblyperson, appeared to be avoiding the press while going in.

However, when pressed on what he was doing at the Bersatu headquarters where Bersatu’s supreme council was having a meeting, he merely said he was there for “a meeting” (untuk mesyuarat).  

Those seen entering the building so far are:

Muhyiddin Yassin, Redzuan Yusof, Syed Saddiq Abdul Rahman, Rina Harun, Marzuki Yahya, Maszlee Malik, Rais Yatim, Wan Saiful Wan Jan, Rafiq Naizamohideen, Mukhriz Mahathir, Hilman Idham, Mustapa Mohamed, Azizah Mohd Dun, and Shahbudin Yahaya.

---

BN and PAS leaders in closed-door dinner meeting 

9:30pm: BN and PAS top leaders are meeting over dinner at Riverside Cafe, PWTC.

Among those from Umno spotted are party president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, vice-president Ismail Sabri (below), former prime minister Najib Abdul Razak, former minister Mahdzir Khalid, Pasir Salak MP Tajuddin Abdul Rahman and Baling MP Abdul Azeez Abdul Rahim.

PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang, deputy president Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man and secretary-general Takiyuddin Hassan are also seen.

Tajuddin declines to answer when asked if there is a meeting between the two parties tonight.

The media are not allowed inside the restaurant and the shutters have been pulled down.

Bodyguards and security personnel are seen guarding the entrance.

---

Maszlee Malik denies leaving Bersatu 

9.10pm: Former education minister Maszlee Malik has denied he is quitting Bersatu.

He was questioned as he was walking into the Bersatu headquarters for an emergency meeting about speculation that he, along with several other Bersatu leaders, would be leaving the party after Dr Mahathir Mohamad quit as chairperson.

“I am entering the Bersatu office now, why would I be quitting? When did I quit?” Maszlee (above) said to reporters.

---

Party leaders plot next moves

8.30pm: A group of about 30 youths outside Bersatu's headquarters in Petaling Jaya chant "Hidup Tun" as party leaders arrive for their supreme council meeting, in an apparent show of support to Dr Mahathir Mohamad who carries the title, although he was not present at the meeting. 

Mahathir had resigned as Bersatu chairperson earlier today.

The group also cheer when Bersatu youth chief Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahmad arrives.

Meanwhile, The Malaysian Insight reports that leaders of the remaining Pakatan Harapan parties - PKR president Anwar Ibrahim, DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng, and Amanah president Mohamad Sabu - are meeting at an undisclosed location. 

Earlier, a Pakatan Harapan presidential council meeting scheduled for this afternoon had been postponed until tomorrow. The new time and venue for the meeting has yet to be announced.

It is also understood that supporters of the ousted PKR deputy president Azmin Ali are meeting at a hotel in Kuala Lumpur.

---

Gerakan meeting ends with no announcement

7:30pm: Gerakan concludes its emergency meeting, but no announcement is made. A spokesperson tells reporters that the meeting has been adjourned as Gerakan president Dominic Lau (above) has an urgent matter to attend to.

Prior to the meeting, Lau told reporters that Gerakan has no intention of joining BN or any coalition just yet.

---

Penang remains committed to Harapan: Chow 

7.25pm: Penang is committed to the embattled Pakatan Harapan and will continue to administer the state government in a responsible manner as decided by the people, said Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow.

In a brief statement this evening, Chow said, the people's mandate is "sacred and must be respected" by all.

"The Penang government continues to support the leadership of Dr Mahathir Mohamad as the prime minister under Pakatan Harapan," Chow said.

---

Agong appoints Dr M as interim PM

7pm: Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah has appointed Dr Mahathir Mohamad as the interim prime minister.

The Agong accepted the prime minister's resignation but decided that he should continue to helm the nation until a new government is formed. 

Earlier, Mahathir had an audience with the Agong at Istana Negara in Kuala Lumpur.

A source told Malaysiakini that the interim prime minister post would be for a maximum of 10 days. 

---

All 42 DAP lawmakers sign SD supporting Dr M as PM

6.55pm: All 42 DAP lawmakers have signed statutory declarations stating their support for Dr Mahathir Mohamad as the prime minister.

According to a source, the MPs sign the SDs individually to seal what they have agreed earlier.

---

IGP: Democracy is in process, keep the peace

6.20pm: Inspector-General of Police Abdul Hamid Bador says the Chief Secretary to the Government Mohd Zuki Ali is expected to release a statement anytime soon.  

Speaking to the media near Gate 1 of Istana Negara, Hamid says Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah has instructed the police to ensure peace and order in the country.

"I urge the people to not make any speculations.

"The democracy process is running smoothly. I also urge the political leaders and the people to be patient."

---

Dr M leaves palace after 90-minute audience with King

6.18pm: Dr Mahathir Mohamad leaves Istana Negara via Gate 1 after a 90-minute audience with Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah.

He waves and smiles at media personnel gathered outside the gate.

Meanwhile, a palace official is heard blowing a trumpet as the entourage exits the palace. 

---

5.30pm: PKR president Anwar Ibrahim leaves the party headquarters.

He tells members of the press that he is going to a Pakatan Harapan meeting, but did not disclose the venue where it will be held.

I did not sign any SD, says Nazri Aziz

5.20pm: Umno Padang Rengas MP Nazri Abdul Aziz (photo) informs Malaysiakini that he has not signed any statutory declarations.

This is as he is currently overseas.

Malaysiakini understands he has been out of the country since mid-February.

Previously, Nazri had said that he would only support any efforts to form a government with Bersatu if it was a party decision.

He had also said then, that on a personal note, he supported Anwar on the basis of friendship and because the latter was an "extraordinary politician."

AG not issuing statement for now, says political situation too fluid

4.55pm: Attorney-General Tommy Thomas (photo) says he would not be issuing a statement on the current political situation following Dr Mahathir Mohamad's resignation as prime minister at this juncture.

According to him, the “situation is just too fluid.”

“Hence insufficient clarity. Will defer making a press statement for the time being,” he adds.

DAP MP: Azmin puts his ambition above national interests

4.50pm: DAP lawmaker Ong Kian Ming accuses Azmin Ali of putting his political ambitions above the interests of the nation.

In a tweet this afternoon, in which he tagged Azmin, Ong adds: “ At the moment when we are facing serious economic challenges, his 'move' has put the economic stimulus package in jeopardy...”

Ong also commended those at the Finance Ministry who have been working hard to come up with an economic stimulus package for the country “while the minister of economic affairs (Azmin) is fine with working with those who robbed the country...”

He says Azmin and Muhyiddin Yassin thought that they could hasten the change in government by the show of force last night at Sheraton but didn't think that Dr Mahathir Mohamad wouldn't play their game by resigning.

“It is obvious why Umno wanted to be part of this coup. Many of their leaders are being charged in court. It's a blatant attempt to save their own 'asses'. What is sad is that Azmin and Muhyiddin both think that this is okay,” he adds.

Ambiga urges Dr M to retake leadership reins

4.45pm: Former Bersih chairperson Ambiga Sreenevasan (photo) appeals to Dr Mahathir Mohamad to retake the leadership reins and steer Pakatan Harapan into calmer waters.

She recalls that on May 9, 2018, the people gave their mandate to Harapan headed by Mahathir to lead the nation and this mandate has not changed.

“As things stand Mahathir enjoys the confidence of the majority of the House.

“Amanah and DAP have also expressed their support for Tun (Mahathir) and I would urge Tun to retake the reins of power as entrusted by the people and steer Harapan into calmer waters.

“From the ashes may the phoenix rise and may the people see a stronger and more united Harapan to complete its mandated tasks, particularly that of reform.

“Cooler heads must prevail and the nation and its people must come first,” she adds.

Mahathir enters Istana Negara

4.40pm: Dr Mahathir Mohamad enters Istana Negara via Gate 1 to seek an audience with the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.

KFC surprise for media members

4.30pm: Members of the media who have been waiting since 8am outside Istana Negara receive a delightful surprise in the form of KFC meals from a team of palace officials.  

However, most of them, who have yet to take lunch, have to hold their craving as they wait for the arrival of Dr Mahathir Mohamad.  

Umno, PAS will stick together - Annuar Musa

4.30pm: Umno leaders held a meeting with PAS, and the outcome was that they would stick together, according to Umno secretary-general Annuar Musa.

"God willing, whatever the outcome we do it together, upholding Muafakat Nasional and the spirit of BN," he tweets.

Annuar says PAS secretary-general Takiyuddin Hassan was present at the meeting, while photos show Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi as also being in attendance.

There is rife speculation that GPS does not want to work with PAS, and thus throwing a wrench into plans to form a new government.

Mahathir leaves residence heading to Istana Negara

4.25pm: Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad leaves his residence for an audience with the Agong.

The nonagenarian did not look at ease as he is driven past the media.

Will see what happens next, says Anwar

3.32pm: PKR president Anwar Ibrahim when asked by Malaysiakini if there would be a game of numbers now to form a government, replies in the negative.

"No, but we will see what happens."

Asked on what would happen next since Dr Mahathir Mohamad has resigned as the prime minister, Anwar says: "The PM has just tendered his resignation, (he will be) having an audience with the Agong shortly. We will go on from there."

Asked on whether he will still be the next prime minister as agreed by Pakatan Harapan presidential council, Anwar, however, refuses to give a definitive answer.

"We shall see."

I pleaded with Mahathir not to resign - Anwar

3.30pm: PKR president Anwar Ibrahim returns to the party headquarters after an audience with the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.

Asked for his comments on Dr Mahathir Mohamad's resignation as the country's prime minister, Anwar says that he was with the premier when he decided to resign.

Anwar says that he, however, could not tell this to the media earlier as it had yet to be made public.

The politician says that he had pleaded to Mahathir to change his mind, but according to Anwar, Mahathir was unhappy that he was being associated with "those literally corrupt".

"I was with him, I was informed but I could not tell until he releases publicly. I did appeal to him on behalf of PKR and Pakatan (Harapan).

"(That) this treachery could be dealt with together. But of course, he was of a different mind, he thought (he) shouldn't be treated that manner, to associate him with working with those literally corrupt," says Anwar.

Read more: Mahathir did not mastermind treacherous act, clarifies Anwar

Anwar says that he also thinks that Mahathir played no part in the attempt to topple Harapan government.

"No, I think it was not him, his name was used (by) those within my party and outside, you know, using his name.

"And he (Mahathir) reiterated what he has said earlier, he played no part in it.

"He had been very clear, there is no way he will ever work with those who had been associated with the past regime." 

Bersatu leaders to hold emergency meeting tonight

3.30pm: The Bersatu supreme council will have an emergency meeting tonight at 8.30pm at their headquarters in Petaling Jaya.

Two supreme council members, Rafiq Naizamohideen and Muhammad Faiz Na’aman, confirms this when contacted by Malaysiakini.

This comes after Dr Mahathir Mohamad announced he was resigning not only as prime minister but as Bersatu chairperson as well.

Bersatu president Muhyiddin Yassin had also earlier announced Bersatu’s exit from Pakatan Harapan.

Amanah ministers make their exit from office

3.25pm: Agriculture Minister Salahuddin Ayub (photo) in a statement marking his exit, apologises to farmers and fishermen, saying he had done his best to fight for them.

"I have spent my entire time at the Agriculture Ministry fighting for farmers and fisherman. If I still failed, I again apologise to all of you," he says, adding that he will still fight for them even if no longer in government.

He also prays that they will have better fortunes under a new ministry leadership.

Meanwhile, Health Minister Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad issues a statement saying that two more Covid-19 patients in Malaysia have been cured, leaving only two other positive cases still under treatment.

Dzukefly's aide says that it would be his last statement as a minister.

Anwar, Wan Azizah leave Istana Negara

3.15pm: Anwar Ibrahim and Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail leave Istana Negara via Gate 2 without speaking to the media. 

Meanwhile, several individuals believed to be supporters of PKR president Anwar Ibrahim are seen showing banners as the entourage pass by.

They are clad in T-shirts emblazoned with the words "Otai Reformis". 

Mahathir resigns as Bersatu chairperson

3.05pm: Dr Mahathir Mohamad announces that he is also quitting his position as the Bersatu chairperson.

He did not provide a reason for his resignation.

Earlier, he said he already sent in his resignation letter as prime minister to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong this afternoon.

Mahathir’s decision to quit as Bersatu chairperson comes just an hour after Bersatu president Muhyiddin Yassin said the party was leaving Pakatan Harapan.

DAP plans to renominate Dr M as PM - sources

3pm: DAP headquarters, Pudu - Meeting with MPs and state assemblypersons is over and now the central executive committee (CEC) starts its meeting.

According to sources, DAP will renominate Dr Mahathir Mohamad as the prime minister once the Pakatan Harapan coalition gets the simple majority of 112 seats.

"We have trust in Mahathir. He is also disappointed with Bersatu and assured he will not collaborate with Umno.

"If we nominate Anwar (PKR president) as PM, this will make Mahathir to be seen as the person who led Bersatu and 11 PKR MPs to quit Harapan," said sources. 

Azmin, Zuraida and others arrive at Dr M's residence

2.44pm: Azmin Ali and Zuraida Kamaruddin, together with several cars belonging to deputy ministers arrive at Mahathir's residence in Seri Kembangan.

Also in tow are Baru Bian and Kamaruddin Jaafar. 

Bersatu secretary-general Marzuki Yahya arrived earlier at 2.09pm and has not yet left.

Wan Azizah enters the palace

2.40pm: The convoy ferrying Deputy Prime Minister Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail enters the palace.

Amanah will stand with Harapan - Khalid Samad

2.40pm: Federal Territories Minister Khalid Samad (photo) said Amanah will stand firm together with Pakatan Harapan.

"We will not stand with (Umno president) Zahid (Hamidi)," he tells Malaysiakini briefly.

Technically, the Harapan government is no more.

What happens next?

2.35pm: QUICK ANALYSIS - With the withdrawal of 25 MPs from Bersatu and 11 MPs from PKR, Pakatan Harapan no longer has the numbers needed to form a government.

What happens next?

The Yang di-Pertuan Agong will have to either decide if someone has majority support to lead a government or call for dissolve Parliament to make way for fresh elections.

At the time of writing, the Agong is having an audience with PKR president Anwar Ibrahim, who should be given a chance to prove he has the necessary support to form a government.

If he doesn't, the Agong could either test if anyone else has majority support from the MPs, or dissolve Parliament.

Azmin, Zuraida and 9 other MPs to quit PKR, Harapan

2.32pm: A number of PKR MPs led by Economic Affairs Minister Azmin Ali and Housing and Local Government Minister Zuraida Kamaruddin announce that they are quitting PKR and the Pakatan Harapan coalition.

In the statement posted on Azmin’s Facebook, they say they are going to form an independent bloc in Parliament.

The 11 parliamentarians quitting are Azmin, Zuraida, Foreign Affairs Minister Saifuddin Abdullah, Works Minister Baru Bian, Deputy Transport Minister Kamaruddin Jaffar, Nibong Tebal MP Mansor Othman, Batu Pahat MP Rashid Hasnon, Segamat MP Santhara Kumar, Saratok MP Ali Biju, Puncak Borneo MP Willie Mongin and Ranau MP Jonathan Yasin.

Anwar enters Istana Negara

2.30pm: PKR president Anwar Ibrahim enters the Istana Negara via Gate 2.

Only his car, escorted by a traffic police officer on a motorcycle, is allowed to pass the guardpost while his entourage waits outside. 

Anwar, Wan Azizah on the way to Istana Negara

2.20pm: PKR president Anwar Ibrahim and his wife, Deputy Prime Minister Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, leave the PKR headquarters in Petaling Jaya to go to the Istana Negara.

They are travelling in separate cars.

Anwar, who is clad in a suit, refuses to comment when asked who will be the next prime minister.

However, when asked if Pakatan Harapan is still intact, he only says: "Bersatu has announced that it's leaving Pakatan Harapan."

Wan Azizah has no comment.

Bersatu officially quits Harapan

2.15pm: Bersatu president Muhyiddin Yassin (photo) announces that his party has quit Pakatan Harapan.

He says the decision was made yesterday during a special meeting.

"All MPs from Bersatu will also leave Pakatan Harapan.

"All of them have signed a statutory declaration to continue supporting and putting their trust in Mahathir Mohamad as the prime minister," he says.

Lawyer explains three possible scenarios

2.10pm: With Mahathir seemingly on the way out, lawyer New Sin Yew tells Malaysiakini that there are three possible scenarios.

"Once the prime minister resigns, he can advise the Agong to dissolve Parliament.

"If he doesn't, by convention the largest party will be given a chance to form the government.

"If they can't form a government, it is my view that the Agong can exercise discretion to dissolve the Parliament," he says.

PKR is currently the largest party in Parliament, meaning it rests on Anwar to form a government.

However, with Bersatu out of Harapan, Anwar will need support from Warisan or GPS, both of whom seemingly sided with the Azmin's coup yesterday.  

PKR sec-gen confirms Azmin, Zuraida sacked

2pm: PKR secretary-general Saifuddin Nasution has confirmed that Azmin and Zuraida have been sacked from the party with immediate effect.

Meeting with Dr M emotional, says Guan Eng

2pm: DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng describes his meeting with Dr Mahathir Mohamad leaders as “emotional”, The Star reports.

He says this of the meeting at Mahathir’s residence in Seri Kembangan, also attended by fellow Pakatan Harapan leaders Anwar Ibrahim, Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail and Mohamad Sabu, this morning.

Mahathir has tendered resignation - PMO

1.50pm: Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad has tendered his resignation, confirms the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) this afternoon.

The PMO says the resignation letter was delivered to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong at 1pm.

Full news here.

Syed Saddiq's message to PM – Prioritise people, not power struggle

1.40pm: Youth and Sports Minister Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman, who was present at Sheraton Hotel in Petaling Jaya last night, appears to be against the move to form a new political coalition.

In a tweet this afternoon, the Pakatan Harapan Youth chief said he has conveyed his stand on the latest political developments to Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad.

“The people must be prioritised, not the politics of power struggle.

“The people are in power, not si pencatur kuasa (power broker). May Allah bless our struggle,” he added.

Sources: PKR to sack Azmin, Zuraida 

1.36pm: Azmin Ali and Zuraida Kamaruddin will be sacked from PKR, according to sources.

Sources told Malaysiakini that the sacking is a done deal, and is only awaiting an official announcement.

S'gor MB is meeting Sultan Sharafuddin

1.30pm: Selangor Menteri Besar Amirudin Shari is meeting with Sultan Sharafuddin Idris Shah, according to a source.

The source, who is aligned to Anwar, says Amirudin has informed PKR assemblypersons who met at his home earlier, that Selangor will "uphold the people's mandate".

"Our menteri besar is giving a briefing to Tuanku. Tomorrow he will meet again with Tuanku together with all of the Harapan state chairpersons," the source adds.

EC on 'full alert', ready for anything

1.00pm - The Election Commission is prepared to fulfil its legal obligations should a snap election be called, its chairperson Azhar Azizan Harun said.

"The EC will perform its duties as required by the law. We are on full alert," he tells Malaysiakini.

Selangor MB summons PKR assemblypersons to his residence

12.55pm - Selangor Menteri Besar Amirudin Shari has summoned PKR assemblypersons to his official residence this morning, according to a source.

Initially, there were reports that he had summoned all assemblypersons.

Asked if the state government will stand, the source who is aligned to Azmin Ali's camp says "No changes".

It is unclear if PKR assemblypersons aligned to Anwar were at the meeting. They have not responded to requests for comment.

Meanwhile, it is learnt that Selangor Amanah will also be having an internal meeting later today.

Anwar says Mahathir won't bow down to traitors

12.45pm - Anwar Ibrahim arrives at the PKR HQ with his wife, Deputy Prime Minister Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail.

The PKR president tells the media he had just come from Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad's residence, where they had a "very good meeting".

"We discussed several things and I am satisfied with his stand that we must put our principles first, and the reform agenda should be continued.

"That is what I can say for now," says Anwar.

When asked if there would be any change of government, he says: "We should not easily bow to those who want to betray the people's trust in the last general election."

When pressed further if Mahathir had promised this, he said that was all he could say at this juncture.

"Enough that we say so far, it was a very good meeting.

"And I was touched by his attitude and principle about doing changes, that (he) would not bow to the groups that want to grab power without setting any reform agenda."

Gunasekaran heads to DAP meeting straight from the court

12:20pm - Seremban Jaya assemblyperson P Gunasekaran (below) arrives at the DAP headquarters immediately after being acquitted of Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE)-related charges.

“I am very happy, I want to (give) a thousand thanks,” he tells the media.

His daughter Nancy tells Malaysiakini that the family had left the Kuala Lumpur High Court at 10:30am this morning.

“We came right after the court case,” she said.

Kit Siang responds to 'Kit Siang di airport, mau lari ka?' viral post

12.15pm: Lim Kit Siang says the thought of fleeing Malaysia has not entered the mind of any DAP leader because “we are not thieves, robbers or rogues but dedicated and patriotic Malaysians.”

The DAP veteran is commenting on viral social media post which stated that he was spotted at the airport.

“Kit Siang di kesan berada di airport, mau lari ka…? Mohon standby di airport, tahan pemimpin DAP, PKR, PAN yang nak lari keluar negara,” read the post by an Umno leader.

Lim says he was at the Penang Airport last night waiting for the flight to Kuala Lumpur to attend a court case today.

He stresses that DAP leaders want to end Malaysia plunging along the trajectory of a failed, rogue and kleptocratic state.

“DAP men and women want to do good for the country for all Malaysians, regardless of race, religion or region.

“We are in politics because we believe that politics is an honest, honourable and even noble avenue to make Malaysia a better nation for our children and children's children; that it is politicians and not politics which is dirty; and we hold to this belief,” he adds.

FBM KLCI is down 35.74 points to 1495.46

12.10pm: The FBM KLCI is down 35.74 points to 1495.46, extending its losing streak amid market uncertainty.

The ringgit is also weakening against the US dollar, falling to 4.2215 as of 12.10pm.

Commenting on the bourse's negative performance, former prime minister Najib Abdul Razak tweets that regardless of whether Harapan stays, falls or Parliament is dissolved, political instability must be resolved as soon as possible.

Related story here.

Fahmi Fadzil: I have a good feeling

12.07pm: PKR communications chief Fahmi Fadzil arrives at the PKR headquarters in Merchant Square, Petaling Jaya carrying what looks like a cup of coffee with him.

Asked on what would be discussed during the party leadership's meeting scheduled this afternoon, he declines to comment, except that "I have a good feeling".

A few minutes later, Permatang Pauh MP Nurul Izzah Anwar also arrives at the premises.

She, however, declines to say anything to the media members, who have been swarming the front door to the headquarters.

All good, business as usual - Perak exco

12.05pm: Selangor speaker and Sekinchan assemblyperson Ng Suee Lim arrives at the DAP headquarters.

He deflects questions about the stability of the Selangor government.

Meanwhile, Perak exco and Pasir Pinji assemblyperson Howard Lee also arrives.

“All good, business as usual,” says Lee when asked about the Perak government.

Energy, Science, Technology, Environment and Climate Change Minister Yeo Bee Yin, Penang Chief Minister Chow Kon Yeow, Deputy Education Minister Teo Nie Ching, DAP national chairperson Tan Kok Wai, DAP vice-chairperson Chong Chieng Jen are all here as well.

Top DAP leaders yet to be seen include secretary-general Lim Guan Eng, deputy chairperson Gobind Singh Deo and vice-chairperson M Kulasegaran.

Deputy secretary-general Teresa Kok tells Malaysiakini that she is skipping today’s meeting as she is in Sabah. 

Organising secretary Anthony Loke is on official business in the UK, Malaysiakini understands. 

Meeting at PM's residence still ongoing - report

11.40am: Anwar Ibrahim and Lim Guan Eng are reported to have arrived at Mahathir's residence at Country Heights, Seri Kembangan almost an hour ago.

Amanah president Mohamad Sabu is also said to be there.

Astro Awani reports that the meeting is ongoing.

Dozens of reporters are stationed at entry points into the prime minister's residence.

All DAP elected reps invited for meeting, not just CEC members

11:35am: Malaysiakini has learnt that DAP has invited all elected representatives and senators, and not just its central executive committee (CEC) members, for a meeting at its headquarters today.

This tallies with arrivals at the entrance of the building, among them - Deputy Chief Minister II P Ramasamy, Beruas MP Ngeh Koo Ham, Bagan Jermal assemblyperson Soon Lip Chee, senator AK Das and Sungkai assemblyperson A Sivanesan.

We are still the government, says health minister

11.30am: It's business as usual for Health Minister Dzulkefly Ahmad.

"From what I understand, we are still the government today. We still carry out our duties as long there is no change," he told reporters at a ministry event in Kuala Lumpur this morning.

He adds that Amanah's stance is that Harapan should stick with the presidential council decision on Friday, which saw the coalition entrusting Mahathir to decide on when he would step down himself.

DAP supremo arrives at party HQ

11am: DAP veteran Lim Kit Siang (below) arrives at party headquarters.

“We have a meeting later,” he tells the media at the entrance, declining to answer other questions.

Earlier, DAP central executive member Chong Eng says she is attending a meeting as well.

Non-CEC members Teratai assemblyperson Lai Wai Chong and Ayer Keroh assemblyperson Kerk Chee Yee are also here. 

Will Azmin join Gerakan? Party to hold meeting at 4pm 

10.55am: Gerakan president Dominic Lau confirms the party will hold a central committee meeting at its headquarters at 4pm.

He tells Malaysiakini that one of the agenda is to discuss the possibility of Azmin Ali  and his faction joining Gerakan.

"This is one of the agenda. But we will discuss mainly on the political situation, be it on our position, strategy and our response. We will talk about our role when there is a change of government," he says.

Lau, however, declines to comment when asked whether Azmin and his team had applied to join Gerakan or will the group attend the meeting later today.

Dr M not at PMO - Anwar, Wan Azizah, Guan Eng head to PM's residence

10.50am: Malaysiakini has learnt from sources in the Prime Minister's Office that Mahathir was not in when Anwar Ibrahim, Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail and Lim Guan Eng arrived.

It is understood that the trio is headed to Mahathir's residence in Seri Kembangan.

NGOs to gather at Bersih's office

10.49am: Centre to Combat Corruption and Cronyism executive director Cynthia Gabriel says NGOs are coming together for a press conference about the current political situation at Bersih's office at 4.30pm.

"We will have the press conference right after Anwar meets the Agong. Stay tuned," says Gabriel.

Anwar, Guan Eng leave PMO, so does Syed Saddiq

10.25am: Anwar and Lim Guan Eng leave Perdana Putra, with neither stopping their vehicles to speak to the press.

Just minutes earlier, Youth and Sports Minister Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman is also spotted leaving the Prime Minister's Office.

Syed Saddiq, who is at the wheel, slows down to wave at the press before driving off.

PKR sec-gen skips all ministerial events today

10.20am: PKR secretary-general Saifuddin Nasution is skipping all his ministerial events today, according to his aide.

Domestic Trade and Consumer Affairs Ministry secretary-general Hasnol Zam Zam Ahmad will be representing him instead.

Tony Pua arrives at DAP HQ

10am: Two hours before a scheduled central executive committee (CEC) meeting, DAP national publicity secretary Tony Pua arrives at the party headquarters in Pudu, Kuala Lumpur.

He responds “I don’t know” when asked by the media if he is here for the 12pm meeting, adding that he has come to work for “other matters” today.

Kluang MP Wong Shu Qi is also seen arriving at about 9.30am. 

Anwar meets Mahathir

9.30am: PKR president Anwar Ibrahim and DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng are meeting Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad at the Prime Minister's Office to discuss the latest developments. 

The latter is believed to be forming a new coalition which will back him to serve a full five year-term instead of keeping to Pakatan Harapan's promise of a handover to Anwar.

Anwar and his wife, Deputy Prime Minister Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail, are expected to meet with the Yang di-Pertuan Agong at 2pm today.

Both PKR and DAP have scheduled emergency meetings at noon.

Najib denies signing SD

9.15am: Ex-prime minister Najib Abdul Razak denies a report claiming that he had signed a statutory declaration backing Mahathir to serve a full term

Maria Chin says no to backdoor gov't, won't leave PKR

8.45am: Embattled Petaling Jaya MP Maria Chin Abdullah has reminded the ruling Pakatan Harapan coalition that it was given a mandate by the voters and that any changes to the administration must not go against the will of people.

Maria (above), a former chairperson of electoral reform coalition Bersih 2.0, came under heavy fire from supporters who learnt that she was present at a meeting of PKR leaders led by the party's deputy president Azmin Ali, who appears poised to lead a group of defectors out of the party and renege on the coalition's promise that party president Anwar Ibrahim would be the next premier.

"I won't leave PKR," she told Malaysiakini.

The formation of a new government to replace Pakatan Harapan appears imminent after Azmin Ali's faction in PKR, BN, PAS, Bersatu, GPS and Warisan met with the Yang di-Pertuan Agong yesterday.

MIC president SA Vigneswaran told the media that Bersatu may quit Harapan while Azmin had quit PKR. This was not confirmed by Azmin.

There has been no official announcement from Mahathir or any party on the matter as of this morning.

Mahathir himself only appeared at a Bersatu meeting in the afternoon but was not present at the multi-party gatherings at the Istana and Sheraton PJ.

RELATED REPORTS

LIVE: Anwar enters Istana Negara

Azmin quits PKR, takes 10 other MPs with him

Mahathir resigns - PMO confirms

Muhyiddin: Bersatu quits Harapan

Anwar satisfied with Dr M's stand on regime change

Selangor likely to remain a Harapan state

Gerakan to decide whether to accept Azmin and Co

Dr M also quits as Bersatu chair moments after party exits Harapan

GPS more comfortable working with PAS than DAP - Masing

Harapan gov't collapses but opponents have no clear majority either