A Bersatu leader has urged PAS to reveal its choice for prime minister ahead of the next general election, allowing Perikatan Nasional (PN) top leadership to deliberate on the matter.
Bersatu Supreme Council member Dr. Yadzil Yaakub dismissed claims that the party had acted hastily by naming party president Muhyiddin Yassin as its candidate, emphasizing that the final decision rests with the PN Supreme Council.
“PAS can also announce a prime ministerial candidate at its muktamar, which runs from September 11 to 16. But PN’s candidate will ultimately be decided by consensus among all its components,” he told FMT.
The question of PN’s poster boy for GE16 has caused tension among coalition partners. Bersatu, however, unanimously resolved during its annual general assembly yesterday to nominate Muhyiddin as its prime ministerial candidate.
PN election director Sanusi cautioned Bersatu against acting unilaterally, noting that such decisions require agreement among all coalition partners. Last November, PAS spiritual leader Hashim Jasin had clarified that Muhyiddin was not yet confirmed as PN’s official candidate, suggesting that PAS could also lead the coalition.
Bersatu Supreme Council member Wan Ahmad Fayhsal Wan Ahmad Kamal acknowledged Sanusi’s concerns but reiterated that each PN component has the right to nominate its preferred candidate. He stressed that the priority should be ensuring PN’s election machinery is prepared for GE16. “Ultimately, the decision will be made by the PN Supreme Council,” he said.
Meanwhile, Bersatu information chief Tun Faisal Ismail Aziz defended Muhyiddin’s nomination as reflecting the will of party members, citing his experience leading the country during the Covid-19 pandemic and the economic downturn caused by lockdowns.
“The motion represents the wishes of Bersatu members and should be respected. It will be submitted to the PN presidential council,” he added.
