“We are the opposition, of course we want to defeat the government, especially one that is like Najib’s (Prime Minister Najib Razak),” Mahathir told reporters at the DAP national conference here today.

“PPBM wants to topple Najib, so does Amanah, PKR and DAP.

“If you say that is a crime, then show me which country has an opposition who struggles to keep the ruling party in power, said Mahathir, who is now Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (PPBM) chairman.

He also admitted that his past perception of DAP was wrong. He said former prime minister Tun Abdul Razak had invited DAP to join Barisan Nasional but they declined as they preferred to be in the opposition.

“I say it’s good to be the opposition, but it is better to be the government. And DAP cannot do this alone.

“They need an alliance and that is why we have the opposition alliance, which may see the inclusion of PPBM soon,” added the 91-year-old.

Mahathir, who was Umno president for over two decades, also criticised the recent Umno annual general assembly and its members for keeping mum on controversial issues that are affecting the country.

These include the 1Malaysia Development Berhad scandal, the RM 2.6 billion “donation” and the United States Department of Justice’ report pertaining to 1MDB, said Mahathir.

“Their ears, eyes and mouth are shut. They are not allowed to speak about these matters. (So) What kind of meeting is this?”