Kuala lumpur: PAS should not simply follow Bersatu’s wishes, but instead show the courage to name its vice-president, Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar, as Perikatan Nasional’s (PN) prime minister candidate, a political analyst said. Universiti Malaysia Terengganu (UMT) deputy vice-chancellor (Student and Alumni Affairs) Professor Dr Mohd Izani Mohd Zain highlighted the need for PAS to assert its significant political strength within the coalition to bolster its position.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr Mohd Izani commented on Bersatu president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin’s recent statement that Ahmad Samsuri’s appointment as PN chairman does not automatically qualify him as the coalition’s prime minister candidate. This statement, he suggested, could lead to various interpretations, including potential discomfort among Bersatu leaders.
Dr Mohd Izani noted that such declarations might indicate Muhyiddin’s reluctance to endorse Ahmad Samsuri for the role or even suggest his own interest in reclaiming the
position. He emphasized the importance of unity within Bersatu, advising Muhyiddin to adopt a more open approach to leadership transitions. Dr Mohd Izani urged Muhyiddin to support the PN chairman if nominated as a prime minister candidate, rather than issuing statements that may imply personal political aspirations.
Reflecting on PAS’s past experiences, particularly after the 15th General Election (GE15), Dr Mohd Izani pointed out that despite securing the most seats, PAS was unable to negotiate effectively to form the government. He asserted that Ahmad Samsuri’s current role as PN chairman presents PAS with a crucial opportunity to demonstrate its true capabilities within the coalition and prepare for potential leadership in the upcoming 16th General Election (GE16).
Meanwhile, Associate Professor Dr Mazlan Ali from Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM) interpreted Muhyiddin’s statement as a tactical move to manage internal perceptions and dissatisfaction within Bersatu. He noted that the role of the coalit
ion chairman traditionally confers a moral advantage in being considered for the prime minister position, as demonstrated by previous leaders, including Muhyiddin himself.
Political sociology lecturer Prof Datuk Dr Sivamurugan Pandian of Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM) suggested that Muhyiddin’s statement strategically allows both Bersatu and PAS to manage internal perceptions and avoid premature leadership contests. This approach provides flexibility if candidates from PAS demonstrate stronger electoral support, he added.