PAS 10 rejects unity government

Written by Chan Kok Leong, The Edge

As if the signs were not clear enough, 10 PAS members of Parliament (MP) decided to go on record to state their objections against any thoughts of a unity government.

Led by Dr Hatta Ramli (Kuala Krai), the 10 said that they would adhere to the 55th Muktamar’s decision to consolidate and improve their partnership within Pakatan Rakyat.

"We also reject any co-operation with Umno or Barisan Nasional, including the concept of a unity government," said Hatta at a press conference in the Parliament lobby today.

"To avoid any confusion, we wish to stress that the question of a unity government is not part of PAS’ agenda as explained by Pengkalan Chepa representative Datuk Abdul Halim Abdul Rahman in Dewan Rakyat on Wednesday," he explained.

The 10 MPs also reiterated their backing for Mursyidul Am Datuk Nik Aziz Nik Mat in this area.

When asked to clarify if their support for Nik Aziz included his rebuke for PAS deputy president Nasharudin Mat Isa, Khalid Samad gave a cryptic explanation.

"We support Nik Aziz on his statement against a unity government. Although, this press conference is not about anyone in particular, we feel that the president and deputy president needs to clarify their stand on this issue."

Khalid added that he personally feels that those who are insistent on "talks" with Umno, should do so outside of the party.

Clarifying the statement, Hatta added that "all talks which will hurt the unity of PR is hence rejected".

The joint statement was also signed by Dr Dzulkifli Nordin (Kuala Selangor), Kamarudin Jaafar (Tumpat), Siti Zailah Mohd Yusoff (Rantau Panjang), Dr Siti Mariah Mahmud (Kota Raja), Dr Lo’lo’ Mohamad Ghazali (Titiwangsa), Dr Mohd Hayati Othman (Pendang), Taib Azamuddin Md Taib (Baling) and Dr Mujahid Yusof Rawa (Parit Buntar).

PAS has 22 MPs.