King accepts Dr M's resignation, appoints him interim premier for now

PUTRAJAYA: The Yang di-Pertuan Agong has accepted Tun Dr Mahathir's resignation as Prime Minister.

However, Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah has consented for Dr Mahathir to continue running the country as interim Prime Minister while waiting for a new premier to be appointed.

Chief Secretary to the Government, Datuk Seri Mohd Zuki Ali said this is in line with Article 43(2) (a) of the Federal Constitution.

"During this period, Dr Mahathir will manage the country's administration until a new prime minister is appointed and a new Cabinet is formed," he said in a statement on Monday (Feb 24).

Dr Mahathir had an audience with the Yang di-Pertuan Agong at Istana Negara following his announcement to step down as prime minister.