TRADING BARBS
There has been a war of words between Bersatu and PAS leaders since. PAS treasurer Iskandar Abdul Samad earlier this week said Bersatu would find it increasingly difficult to function within the PN coalition under the current political circumstances.
Meanwhile, Bersatu supreme council member Afif Bahardin said it would be “awkward and embarrassing” for PAS to remain a component party if it no longer trusts Bersatu.
The PN coalition had enjoyed surprise success at the 15th General Election (GE15) in 2022 that was characterised by the “green wave”, featuring significant electoral gains largely propelled by PAS.
PAS currently holds 43 seats in Malaysia’s lower house of parliament. A minimum of 112 seats is needed to form a simple majority in Malaysia’s 222-seat parliament.
Critics have said that to broaden its appeal beyond its traditional conservative base and capture the federal government, PAS requires a bridge to make it more acceptable to the electorate.
Meanwhile, Bersatu had secured 31 seats at GE15 but its numbers have dwindled following the sacking of some Members of Parliament for supporting Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s administration. This was followed by internal turmoil and the sacking of its then-deputy president Hamzah Zainuddin in February.
Hamzah has since launched his own political party Parti Wawasan Negara, with PAS’ support.
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