KUALA LUMPUR: Gerakan Tanah Air (GTA) has vowed to replace Umno and restore the country's glory as an "Asian Tiger" if it comes to power after the general election.

GTA chairman Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad claimed that Umno has been "hijacked" by criminals who want to enrich themselves and save their leaders from serving jail term as well those facing trials in court.

By contrast, Mahathir said GTA leaders and its election candidates are clean, free from criminal activities with no pending charges against them in court.

"GTA will fight Umno so that Malaysia will not be ruled by criminals who have destroyed the party and the country's administration.  

"In short, GTA will oust the 'criminal-led government' and bring a clean, competent and trustworthy government in power.

"This is GTA's promise to Malaysia and its people," the former premier wrote on his blog today.

GTA will be contesting in 121 parliamentary seats under Pejuang's ticket in the coming election.

Mahathir is set to defend the Langkawi parliamentary seat for a second term, while his son, Datuk Seri Mukhriz Mahathir, will fight to retain his Jerlun seat.