PKR president Anwar Ibrahim again dismissed persistent rumours that his ascension to become the next prime minister was in doubt, saying that the impending handover of power from Dr Mahathir Mohamad was “a done deal”.

In a press conference, the Port Dickson MP said the prime minister has been genuine and frank during their numerous private meetings.

“In my weekly exchange with the PM, I do not have any doubts in the transition. He is genuine and frank.

“As far as I am concerned, it is a done deal,” said Anwar, who was Dr Mahathir’s deputy before his sacking in 1998.

Yesterday, Anwar said that reporters’ and the public’s repeated questioning on the exact timeline for the handover of power would only cause tensions between the two men.

“You cannot ask a sitting prime minister about a transition (of power)... we have an understanding that we talk about every week,” Anwar said.

“I am satisfied with my meetings with Dr Mahathir and for me the issue is settled, if you want to know what we talk about, wait and find out.

“Such questions are meant to create tension,” Anwar told the media at the Lembah Pantai constituency Hari Raya Open house yesterday.

Both Dr Mahathir and Anwar has left the question of a specific timeline for the handover of power unanswered, but Dr Mahathir has vowed not to leave Malaysia in shambles when he eventually steps down.

The 93-year-old has said it was his intention to continue working hard for the country and resolve the problems at hand. – June 23, 2019.