PAS targets prime minister’s post, says no more ‘giving way’ to other parties

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 4 — Delegates from PAS Youth have pushed for the party to take the lead in collaboration with other political parties, while maintaining a belief in having sufficiently qualified candidates to govern the federal government. Ilyas Ahmad, the Kedah Youth chief, emphasized that the primary objective for Muslim unity should be spearheaded by PAS, which should not cede the chance for its prime ministerial candidate.

According to a report by Malaysiakini, he expressed his stance during a debate on PAS Youth chief's policy speech at the PAS muktamar in Kuala Lumpur. Ahead of the upcoming Johor state election on July 11, Barisan Nasional chairman and Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi had indicated that as prime minister, he would prioritize the economy, equitable education, and national security.

Following the coalition's successful performance in the election, it established an electoral partnership with PAS under Perikatan Nasional (PN) based on the principle of Muslim unity. However, no formal decision has been made on whether the two parties will cooperate in the forthcoming Melaka state election. Earlier, PAS president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang reaffirmed the party's readiness for the 16th General Election (GE16), including a potential earlier call.

This statement came after Zahid's claim that Umno-BN desired an early election to secure a new mandate from the people. Mukhlis Hasin, the Terengganu Youth delegate, echoed Ilyas Ahmad's statement, asserting that PAS must lead efforts in forging unity, rather than merely following. He urged the youth to defend their identity and truth, even if it meant defying party leaders who might have personal interests that hinder unity.

He emphasized that the biggest challenge for PAS Youth in leading unity is balancing the aspirations of its members and the needs of its leaders.