Leadership calls remain despite Malaysia PM's power hand-over plans
Updated
The Malaysian prime minister's decision to step down in mid-2010 has not silenced calls for a prompt change of leadership.
Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi struck an agreement with his deputy, Najib Razak, to hand over power in two years' time, wanting the opportunity to implement promised reforms.
But the ruling party's vice president, Muhyiddin Yassin, himself a potential leadership contender, says some in the party prefer a quicker handover.
He says there is concern that political stability will not become more convincing the longer the wait.
Another challenger, Raza-leigh Hamzah, a prince from northern Kelantan state, has also questioned the premier's right to hand the leadership to Mr Najib.
Analysts are divided over the need for a quick handover, which could end the uncertainty that has hampered Malaysia's financial markets.
