Can Mahathir redux undo his own legacy and build a corruption-free Malaysia?

Mahathir Mohamad returned in resounding triumph at the age of 92 to become the world’s oldest elected prime minister. It says a lot about the pernicious state of Malaysian politics that his slogan was his promise to clean up the corrupt government. 

Prime Minister Najib Razak’s grand coalition government, Barisan Nasional, had all the advantages of 61 years of incumbency, backed by the resources of the state apparatus, including control of the media, choice of the election timing and a gerrymandered system. But Barisan Nasional won 79 of the 222 seats in the parliament, whereas Mahathir and his allies claimed 122 seats.  

Nevertheless, questions remain about the future. Mahathir has announced that Anwar Ibrahim, his successor-turned-rival-turned-ally, will be pardoned by the country’s king. But will Mahathir yield to Anwar in two years, as promised?  

Will Mahathir investigate the politicisation of justice that saw Anwar imprisoned twice? Will there be a fair investigation of the charges against Najib involving impropriety in the management of the 1Malaysia Development Bhd state investment fund? 

Will Mahathir, who built his reputation as a champion of Malay special rights, be able to understand and convince colleagues that Malay predominance must be balanced by respect and rights for other races and other religions?