Mahathir's son ousted as Malaysia premier tightens grip

Kuala Lumpur

THE son of a former Malaysian leader was removed as chief minister of a northern state, indicating Prime Minister Najib Razak is tightening his grip on power after a months-long funding scandal.

Mukhriz Mahathir announced his resignation as the head of Kedah's government, saying he did not have the backing of a majority of lawmakers. He will be replaced by Ahmad Bashah Mohd Hanipah, the deputy chair of Mr Najib's ruling party in the state.