The group behind the Citizens' Declaration against Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak today said conventions of democracy should dictate who will replace Najib should he resign.

The secretariat said this after Zaid Ibrahim, former minister and joint-architect of the movement, endorsed deputy prime minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi to replace Najib.

"We have also been regularly asked as to who will replace Najib once he is removed.

"Consistent with conventions of democracy, the secretariat is clear on its stand that the person who takes over from Najib will be the one who commands the confidence of the majority of the members of the Dewan Rakyat," it said in a statement.

It said the person who takes over must also clamp down on corruption, restore the independence of institutions and rule of law and prioritise the people's interests.

"If the person fails to uphold these conditions, the Citizens' Declaration will revive its campaign," it said in a statement.

'International embarrassment'

The group said Najib's alleged wrongdoings continue to "embarrass" citizens and set Malaysia down the wrong path.

Malaysians face negative reports in international media on alleged scandals in the administration every day, it said.

"The embarrassment and ridicule Malaysians have to suffer from his continued leadership on a daily basis is unprecedented," it said.

As such, the group will continue with its roadshows to collect signatures for its petition to oust Najib.

It also encourages Malaysians to sign the petition online .

The group earlier said it hopes to get a million signatures and present them to the Agong for further action.

Najib had denied abusing public funds and has been exonerated by the attorney-general.