New Malaysian PM Najib steps in, little political change

Malaysian Prime Minister Ahmad Badawi resigned on March 26, making way for new leader Najib Razak to become premier, and reinforcing 52 year-old rule by the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO). Abdullah leaves with low ratings, having failed to follow through on government reform and corruption eradication pledges. Najib takes over with plunging support for the government and his leadership, and questions about the democratic nature of this takeover. In the lead up to Najib’s transition opposition was shut down. Today, both a senior member and the leader of the opposition party face trials. Two opposition newspapers were recently suspended. In addition, Najib has had to reject accusations that his recent decision to release 13 people detained under the Internal Security Act - equivalent to the US Patriot Act - was a ploy to win new votes in upcoming by-elections.The Abolish ISA movement has called the move “political collateral” used by Najib to demonstrate the PM cares.

Najibs ISA step a ploy? - Straits Times
Malaysian PM resigns -New Kerala 
Saviour of Malaysia’s Ruling Party?  - BBC