Funeral rites for Pakatan, says Kit Siang

(The Star) – Pakatan Rakyat is “dead,” DAP veteran Lim Kit Siang says after PAS approved a motion to sever ties with its ally at its muktamar.

Notwithstanding the decision by PAS’ Dewan Ulama “to sever ties with DAP but still work with Pakatan Rakyat,” Lim said PAS representatives must resign from their posts in the DAP-majority Penang government.

On the PR-led Selangor government, where PAS tips the balance on representation (15 each from PAS and DAP), a state election is a possibility, Lim said.

“With this PAS muktamar motion, Malaysian politics has entered into uncharted waters with immediate consequences,” said Lim in a statement.

“A fortnight ago, I gave my most pessimistic forecast that in two weeks’ time, there may not be a Pakatan Rakyat left.

“It would appear that my worst-scene forecast for Pakatan Rakyat has come to pass and all that is left are the funeral rites,” he said.

PAS newly elected leaders have, however, said the party’s Syura Council has not decided on whether it should cut all ties with DAP and it should not “overreact.”

Lim said what has happened was a victory for Umno’s “divide and destroy” strategy. He said those advocating for a change in federal government must soldier with or without PR.