SHAH ALAM: Former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad today said he is "embarrassed" to even mention Najib Razak's name after allegations on misappropriation of state funds.
But Mahathir said he has no choice but to ensure Najib does not return to power.
"He (Najib) has shamed the country, race and religion. But he is not ashamed and even pretends as if he was persecuted, including by me," he said in his second letter to Johor voters.
Mahathir said Najib who is embroiled with the 1MDB scandal needs to be prevented from coming into power as it would only mean "the country will be ruled and governed by kleptocracy and court cluster."
Mahathir also explained he did not harbour any "personal vendetta" against Najib, but said his brother Nazir Razak had approached him during the 1MDB scandal to ensure that those responsible will be held accountable for the billions lost.
"I will continue to speak up against him or anyone else who tries to destroy the country and cheat the rakyat," Mahathir added.
In his first letter to Johor voters about a week ago, Mahathir said "the court cluster and Umno kleptocrats" latest move to call for Johor snap polls to was to strengthen their position before GE15.
Today, Mahathir said Najib is not like his father. He had initially supported Najib's leadership as he was indebted to the Kate Abdul Razak Hussein for helping progress his political career.
"Unfortunately, Najib is not like his father, a dignified nationalist.
He stole the country's money with the help of Jho Low ," he said further stating that he will continue to call out anyone who deceives the rakyat.