Top ulama leaders in PAS can replace each other, says Nik Abduh

(The Star) – Any ulama leader in PAS can take over the post of mursyidul am (spiritual leader) that is currently held by Datuk Nik Aziz Nik Mat, said his son Nik Abduh.

The party’s top ulama leaders, he said, were free to replace each other.

“It is for the ulama leadership to decide,” said Nik Abduh, who is also PAS Youth deputy chief.

He was commenting on talks that deputy mursyidul am Datuk Dr Haron Din should replace Nik Aziz as he was vocal enough to defend the party’s interests.

Dr Haron had rapped Opposition leader Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim for launching former Indian MP Mubasyar Jawid Akbar’s book titled Tinder Box: The Past and Future of Pakistan that intimated that Islam was not a basis in establishing a nation.

However, Nik Abduh said, now was not the time for a leadership change because it was not election year for the party.

“Furthermore, the matter was ne-ver discussed internally,” he added.

On claims by PAS veteran Prof Dr Shahnon Ahmad that the party was subservient to DAP, Nik Abduh said “the strength of the party relied on its ability to iron out issues while maintaining harmony”.

Earlier, Nik Abduh who chaired the monthly meeting on behalf of Youth chief Nasrudin Hassan said that they have launched a “Love Rasulullah” campaign in the wake of attempts by certain quarters to tarnish Prophet Muhammad’s reputation.

He said 100,000 “Love Rasulullah” car stickers would be distributed free nationwide.

“If there is a demand, we will print more.”

PAS Youth also launched a health check campaign for its members and media members.

The movement is also initiating “Save Malaysia” roadshow in the run up to the 13th general election, focussing on Pakatan Rakyat’s manifesto, economy, social development and education.