Malaysia's Mahathir calls for a referendum on PM amid 1MDB scandal

KUALA LUMPUR - Former Premier Mahathir Mohamad said on Thursday that Malaysians should push for a referendum on Prime Minister Najib Razak's leadership after US prosecutors filed lawsuits linked to state-owned fund 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB).

Mahathir also said Malaysians should have a "peaceful rally" to demand the removal of Najib.

"I suggest the people push for a referendum on the prime minister's leadership," Mahathir told reporters.