Selangor MB crisis: PAS’ Dewan Ulama joins Syura council in backing Hadi

(The Star) – The PAS central committee stands alone in supporting Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah Wan Ismail for the post of Selangor Mentri Besar after the Dewan Ulama decided to stand with the Syura council in backing party president Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang, who rejected Dr Wan Azizah.

On Sunday, the PAS central committee, after a five-hour meeting chaired by deputy president Mohamad Sabu (pic), announced that the party would reject any appointment of a PAS mentri besar by the Selangor Palace.

The committee had decided to stick with its original decision made on Aug 17 to nominate Dr Wan Azizah and PKR deputy president Azmin Ali for the post.

On Sept 3, Hadi submitted three different names, all believed to be PAS state exco members, to the Palace.

Dewan Ulama acting chief Datuk Ahmad Yakob said that in accordance with clause 26 (1) of the party constitution, the president has the prerogative to make the final decision.

“We are also made aware that the Syura council, which possesses the power to translate and interpret the party’s constitution, has also stated their support for the president, and therefore we call for all party members to abide by it.

“It is best for all members to respect and trust his decision,” he said in a statement on Monday.

The Syura council on Sunday had said it was the responsibility of the central committee to carry out its duties and uphold the directives of the president.

The council’s deputy chief Harun Din said the central committee had no authority and could not overrule Hadi’s decision.

Harun also clarified that Azizah’s gender had nothing to do with her not being nominated as the party believes there are others better qualified for the post.