Speaking at the rally, political veteran and Anwar’s one-time mentor, now sworn political rival, Mahathir Mohamad told the crowd: “It’s been three years, what have the people got? I think he (Anwar) enjoys seeing us suffer.”
“Enough, please, step down,” said Mahathir, who last month celebrated his 100th birthday and is one of the world’s longest-living politicians.
Police and city officials estimated that between 18,000 and 50,000 protesters took part in the rally.
Anwar was appointed prime minister on a reformist ticket and promised to tackle graft, nepotism and cronyism within the Southeast Asian nation’s fractured political system.
“GOODIES FOR THE PEOPLE”
Days ahead of the rally, the premier laid out a string of populist measures aimed at addressing concerns, including a RM100 (US$23.70) cash handout for all adult citizens and a promise to cut fuel prices.
Anwar on Wednesday also added that about 18 million Malaysian motorists would be eligible to purchase subsidised medium-octane fuel at RM1.99 per litre, compared to the current price of RM2.05.
Political analysts viewed the announcements as a strategic move to appease increasing public frustration and dissuade people from joining Saturday’s march.
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