Malaysian strongman Mahathir Mohamad returns to power

MAHATHIR is now the world’s oldest elected leader and, analysts say, seems intent on using what may be the final chapter of his life to clean up the “mess” in Malaysia and fashion a more positive legacy.

KNOWN as an authoritarian leader who ruthlessly persecuted his foes and stifled dissent, Mahathir Mohamad was an unlikely choice to steer Malaysia on a more democratic path.

But the pugnacious politician, who is remarkably robust for a 92-year-old, pulled off a stunning electoral upset on Wednesday, denying his former protege, Najib Razak, a third term as prime minister and ending the ruling National Front’s 60-year hold on power.

It was a feat many predicted was impossible. Malaysia’s election this week was expected to provide more evidence that democracy in South-East Asia was in an inexorable retreat. Instead, it became a powerful beacon for people power. Mahathir is now the world’s oldest elected leader and, analysts say, seems intent on using what may be the final chapter of his life to clean up Malaysia – he called it a “mess” – and fashion a more positive legacy.

Mahathir Mohamad is now the world’s oldest elected leader and, analysts say, seems intent on using what may be the final chapter of his life to clean up Malaysia – he called it a “mess” – and fashion a more positive legacy. Photo: Getty Images