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

Malaysia's former Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad attends a meeting of political and civil leaders looking to change the government in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, March 27, 2016. REUTERS/Olivia Harris/File photo

KUALA LUMPUR (Reuters) - Former Premier Mahathir Mohamad said on Thursday that Malaysians should push for a referendum on Prime Minister Najib Razak's leadership after U.S. 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. (Reporting by Joseph Sipalan; Editing by Nick Macfie; writing by Praveen Menon)