PAS leader Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man has refuted claims of strained ties between Tan Sri Hadi Awang and Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin, asserting their strong connection.
The PAS deputy president also dismissed speculation that their relationship jeopardises Perikatan Nasional’s (PN) continuity, stating that Muhyiddin’s role as PN chairman remains secure.
Tuan Ibrahim addressed rumours surrounding PAS vice-president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar as a potential PN prime minister candidate.
“The relationship (between Hadi and Muhyiddin) is very close. We just held a meeting of the PN Supreme Council and the PAS president (Hadi) frequently meets and discusses matters with Muhyiddin.
“The question of the prime minister candidate also does not arise, because all main issues are discussed within PN,” FMT quoted Tuan Ibrahim as saying.
Previously, sources indicated a cooling in relations following Muhyiddin’s reversal on defending his Bersatu presidency, disrupting PAS’ plan to promote Samsuri as the opposition’s prime ministerial candidate.
Moreover, Muhyiddin’s reversal at the Bersatu general meeting in November is perceived as an effort to retain control of the PN chairmanship and potentially secure the position of the next prime minister if PN triumphs.
According to FMT, sources noted a lack of joint appearances between Muhyiddin and Hadi since the PAS muktamar in October, and Hadi’s prolonged absence from PN meetings.
The source compared the situation to the “death” of Muafakat Nasional, the electoral pact forged between PAS and UMNO in 2019 to woo the Malay electorate, saying that Hadi’s absence and representation by Tuan Ibrahim shows the weakening ties between the two parties.
While speculations continue, Tuan Ibrahim’s statements aim to dispel rumours of discord within PN, portraying a united front despite earlier reports of strained ties between key leaders. Feb 2, 2024
