Dr Mahathir Mohamad today decried discrimination following Home Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi’s remark that the former premier may be probed over his remarks against Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak.

Mahathir said “thousands” want Najib to resign, so singling him out is unfair.

“Why is that thousands of citizens want Najib to resign – placards of this were raised by football fans in the Kedah vs Selangor game – but I am the only one to be questioned?

“The principle of justice, according to the law, must apply to all without discrimination,” he said in a blog post today.

He was referring to the Malaysia Cup final last weekend.

Pictures circulating on social media showed spectators holding placards to call for Najib to resign. But it could not be ascertained if the images were authentic.

Zahid, who is also Umno vice-president, said he will discuss with inspector-general of police Khalid Abu Bakar on whether Mahathir will be probed for stating that Najib should be arrested under the Special Offences (Special Measures) Act 2012.

Earlier today, Khalid said police would wrap up its probe concerning Mahathir's remarks that Umno leaders took bribes at the sidelines of the Bersih 4 rally.

Meanwhile, Mahathir said he has not only been questioned by police but has also faced restrictions far worse than those faced by opposition leaders.

Mahathir again pointed out how Umno members were barred from meeting or talking to him.

“Hotels were warned that they will not be given businesses by the government if they allow me to speak in their halls.

"Is this the attitude of a big-hearted gentleman? It’s more similar to that of a boss who ties the hands of his enemy so that his enemy cannot respond when beaten up,” he said.

Najib in his policy speech at the Umno assembly had proclaimed himself a “gentleman” who welcomes anyone to sit down and discuss matters with him.

And at the end of the party’s assembly, describing it as a sign of his magnanimity, Najib extended an olive branch to his opponents.