Dominance of Non-Ulama Group Shows PAS’ Openness

 

(Bernama) – The dominance of the non-ulama group in the PAS’ central leadership this time shows the party’s openness, said its vice-president Datuk Mahfuz Omar.

“What’s the problem? PAS is very open and in its constitution, there is no mention that the party is exclusively for any group.

“The selection (made in the party election) proves that the members understand the party’s constitution and the slogan, ‘PAS For All’.

“They (delegates) not only looked at the academic background of each candidate but also their capability,” he said when met at the PAS 57th Muktamar, here, today.

Another party vice-president, Salahuddin Ayub, said he would be focusing on preparing for the 13th general election.

“The party will be better prepared, more efficient, committed and focused in facing the challenges,” he said.

The party’s new deputy president, Mohamad Sabu, said there did not exist a  professional group and an ulama group in PAS as there was already a clear role between the executive and ulama in the party.

“The ulama are still much in control, especially in the Syura (Consultative) Council and Ulama wing. As an Islamic party, we are unlike Umno where it groups the ulama in a bureau but the role of our ulama takes the form of the Syura Council in determining party policies and discipline,” he said.

Mohamad is also determined to help the opposition pact win more support from the public, especially the non-Muslims.

He said non-Muslims’ support was important, especially in facing the next general election as the party could not solely depend on its members for votes.

“For us, this change does not bring with it a change in party policies and direction; only the work will be stepped up from time to time,” he said.

Mohamad thanked the delegates for their support and the media for the publicity, whether positive or negative, on the party election. “All are greatly appreciated,” he added.

The outcome of the election was that Mohamad, 56, better known as Mat Sabu, obtained 420 votes, defeating the incumbent Nasharudin Mat Isa (224 votes) and  Pahang PAS commissioner Datuk Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man (399).

The three vice-president posts also went to the non-ulama group when  Salahuddin, Mahfuz and Kelantan state executive council member Datuk Husam Musa emerged the winners in the six-cornered contest.

Salahuddin, 50, garnered the highest number of votes at 753, while Husam, 52, obtained 660 votes and Mahfuz, 54, had 616.