Hadi's Son-in-Law Warns: PAS Could Lose 37 Seats If Ahmad Samsuri Leads PN
In a stark warning that has sent ripples through Malaysia's political landscape, a senior figure within the Islamic Party (PAS) has cautioned that the...
In a stark warning that has sent ripples through Malaysia's political landscape, a senior figure within the Islamic Party (PAS) has cautioned that the party could face a significant electoral setback if its vice-president, Datuk Seri Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar, assumes the chairmanship of the Perikatan Nasional (PN) coalition. The cautionary note was sounded by Zaharuddin Mohamed Salleh, the PAS chief for the Sungai Buloh division and son-in-law of the party's president, Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang.
Zaharuddin took to social media on Wednesday to express his concerns, stating that internal party data analysis projects a potential loss of up to 37 parliamentary seats for PAS should Ahmad Samsuri, who also serves as the Menteri Besar of Terengganu, take over the PN leadership from former Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin. While he did not disclose the specific data or scenarios underpinning this prediction, citing confidentiality constraints, Zaharuddin emphasized that the risks associated with such a leadership transition are substantial and warrant serious consideration.
"Based on three scenarios and conditions that I cannot publicly elaborate on, the analysis indicates a clear threat to our electoral standing," Zaharuddin wrote in his post. He further noted that while there is growing enthusiasm within certain quarters of PAS, particularly regarding Ahmad Samsuri's potential ascension to the PN helm, this optimism may be overlooking the underlying vulnerabilities. "Due to my inability to share the data and actual conditions, I can only conclude that if Ahmad Samsuri were to replace Muhyiddin as PN chairman now, based on what my colleagues and I have assessed, the consequences could be dire for our party," he added.
This warning comes at a critical juncture for PN, which has been navigating leadership dynamics following Muhyiddin's tenure. Ahmad Samsuri, a prominent figure known for his administrative acumen in Terengganu, has been increasingly viewed as a potential successor, garnering support from various factions within the coalition. However, Zaharuddin's intervention highlights internal divisions and strategic apprehensions within PAS, a key component of PN.
The potential loss of 37 seats, if realized, would represent a significant blow to PAS, which currently holds 43 parliamentary seats, making it the largest party in the Dewan Rakyat. Such a downturn could not only weaken PAS's influence within PN but also reshape the broader political equilibrium in Malaysia, particularly in the context of upcoming elections. Zaharuddin's remarks underscore the delicate balance between leadership charisma and electoral viability, suggesting that Ahmad Samsuri's appeal might not translate into sustained support across PAS's diverse constituencies.
Political analysts have weighed in on the implications of this warning. Dr. Ahmad Fauzi Abdul Hamid, a political science professor at Universiti Sains Malaysia, noted that Zaharuddin's statement reflects deeper intra-party tensions. "This is not merely about data; it's about power dynamics and the future direction of PAS. Zaharuddin, as Hadi Awang's son-in-law, likely represents a faction cautious of shifting too quickly from established leadership structures," he explained. Fauzi added that the reluctance to disclose data might stem from sensitivities around voter sentiment and coalition partnerships, which could be destabilized if made public.
Meanwhile, supporters of Ahmad Samsuri have pushed back against the warning, arguing that his track record in Terengganu—where he has overseen economic development and maintained political stability—demonstrates his capability to lead PN effectively. They contend that his moderate image could broaden PN's appeal beyond its traditional base, potentially offsetting any seat losses. However, Zaharuddin's analysis suggests that regional strengths may not necessarily translate into national success, particularly in PAS strongholds where loyalty to the party's core leadership remains paramount.
The broader context of this debate includes PN's ongoing efforts to consolidate its position against the ruling Pakatan Harapan coalition and Barisan Nasional. With Muhyiddin's leadership having faced challenges, including legal issues and electoral setbacks, the question of succession is pivotal. Zaharuddin's warning injects a note of caution into these deliberations, urging party members to prioritize electoral calculations over personality-driven politics.
In response to the controversy, PAS officials have called for internal discussions to address the concerns raised. Secretary-General Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan stated that the party values all contributions from its members and will consider diverse viewpoints in its decision-making processes. "We are a democratic party, and such discussions are healthy. However, any leadership decisions will be made collectively, with the party's best interests at heart," he affirmed.
As the situation unfolds, the focus will remain on how PAS and PN navigate these internal warnings. Zaharuddin's intervention has undoubtedly sparked a necessary conversation about risk assessment and strategic planning, highlighting the complexities of coalition politics in Malaysia. Whether his predictions hold weight will depend on future electoral outcomes, but for now, they serve as a reminder that in politics, data-driven insights often clash with aspirational leadership, and balancing the two is key to sustained success.
In conclusion, the warning from Zaharuddin Mohamed Salleh underscores a critical moment for PAS and PN, where leadership choices could have far-reaching electoral consequences. As parties grapple with these decisions, the emphasis on internal cohesion and evidence-based strategy will be crucial in shaping Malaysia's political trajectory in the coming years.
