How does Mahathir view the role of power and position?

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Mahathir Views Power and Position as Tools for National Well-being

Mahathir Mohamad does not consider power and position as ultimate objectives in themselves. Instead, he perceives them as instruments or a means to an end, with the ultimate goal being the nation's well-being. This perspective shaped his decision to resign as Prime Minister, as he felt politicians were prioritizing party politics over the country's welfare.
Power as a Means to an End

Mahathir explicitly stated that he does not view power and position as the be-all and end-all of his objectives. He articulated that for him, these elements serve as tools to achieve a larger purpose. This distinction is crucial to understanding his political actions and motivations.
National Well-being as the Ultimate Objective

The overarching objective that Mahathir emphasizes is the well-being of the nation. He believes that power and position should be utilized to serve this paramount goal. This contrasts with what he observed as politicians prioritizing party dominance, even if it meant aligning with defeated parties.
Resignation Amidst Political Maneuvering

Mahathir's resignation was partly a response to a political landscape where parties seemed more focused on which faction would rule rather than on the nation's broader interests. He had previously promised to step down to allow the Dewan Rakyat to determine his successor, and his resignation was an opportunity for this process to unfold. However, he felt that his support from both sides indicated his time to step down had not yet arrived, but the subsequent decision of his party, Bersatu, to leave Pakatan Harapan, and the potential collapse of the government, led him to resign.
Rejecting Party-Dominated Government

A significant factor in Mahathir's resignation was his inability to accept a coalition government that would be dominated by Umno, a party he had previously been critical of. He was prepared to accept Umno members who had left the party to join other entities, but not Umno itself joining the new coalition. This stance underscored his commitment to prioritizing national interests over party politics.

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How does Mahathir view the role of power and position?

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