Malaysia Votes 2018

How power changed hands in 24 hrs

Barisan Nasional was staring at defeat soon after 10pm on Wednesday, but a tense 24 hours would ensue before Malaysia's new Prime Minister was sworn at 10pm last night. This is an account of the eventful day.

Above: Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad and his wife Siti Hasmah Mohamad Ali at Istana Negara before he was sworn in yesterday. Left: Crowds of flag-waving Pakatan Harapan supporters thronged Jalan Istana yesterday ahead of Dr Mahathir's swearing-in.
Crowds of flag-waving Pakatan Harapan supporters thronged Jalan Istana yesterday ahead of Dr Mahathir's swearing-in. PHOTO: BERNAMA
Leslie Lopez Regional Correspondent In Kuala Lumpur
Updated
May 11, 2018, 08:51 AM
Published
May 11, 2018, 05:00 AM
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The drama that played out on television screens, which ended with 92-year-old Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad being sworn in as Malaysia's new Prime Minister around 10pm yesterday, made for gripping viewing.

But far more tense and suspenseful was the theatre that unfolded behind the scenes.

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on May 11, 2018, with the headline How power changed hands in 24 hrs. Subscribe

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