Prince plans to challenge PM for party leadership

A Malaysian prince says he is ready to challenge Prime Minister Abdullah Ahmad Badawi for the leadership of the ruling party after its dismal election showing.

Razaleigh Hamzah, a government lawmaker and former finance minister, said that he would contest the presidency of the United Malays National Organization, or UMNO, if he is nominated ahead of party elections in August, according to newspapers.

"If this can help restore UMNO, then I am ready to accept the responsibility. I leave it to UMNO members. I am offering my services," Razaleigh, 71, was quoted as saying by national Bernama news agency. "The election results show that the people are restless."