Axed PAS leaders huddle with DAP, PKR as informal talks on ‘Pakatan 2.0’ begins

(Malay Mail Online) – Pictures from a private buka puasa function last night between DAP, PKR and leaders from PAS’s progressive faction have been making its rounds on Facebook and other social media sites, fuelling speculation that talks for a new Pakatan Rakyat (PR) coalition are underway.

Malay Mail Online understands that the pictures were taken shortly after a meeting was held between the axed PAS leaders and representatives from DAP and PKR at Tumpat MP Datuk Kamaruddin Jaafar’s residence.

“We had a meeting, then we broke our fast. It was just a normal meeting with familiar people and friends,” PAS’ Kuala Krai MP Dr Hatta Ramli told Malay Mail Online.

DAP’s Teresa Kok, who was also present yesterday, wrote on Facebook saying that the gathering gave hope to the birth of “Pakatan 2.0.”

“Even though the PAS Muktamar’s decision was to break off relations with DAP, but tonight it seems there is hope for the the birth of Pakatan Rakyat 2.0,” the DAP leader said.

DAP’s Kluang MP Liew Chin Tong, however, insisted the gathering was an informal meet between friends and allies.

“Yes, I was there, PAS progressive leaders were there. To break fast.

“Up to you to read the meaning behind the gathering, but as I have said, it is a buka puasa gathering,” Liew told Malay Mail Online.

Others present at the gathering yesterday were former PAS deputy president Mohamad Sabu, DAP advisor Lim Kit Siang, former PAS vice-president Salahuddin Ayub, Shah Alam MP Khalid Samad, PKR vice-presidents ChuaTian Chang andShamsul Iskandar Mohd Akin and Sungai Petani MP Datuk Johari Abdul.

Yesterday, Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim confirmed the reported realignment of forces in Malaysia’s opposition front, saying in a message through his lawyers that this reorganisation will involve “new” forces, including even non-governmental organisations (NGOs).

The three-party PR alliance comprising PKR, DAP and PAS was thrown into a state of uncertainty recently after PAS decided during its June 6 muktamar to cut ties with the DAP.

The decision later led to the DAP declaring PR’s death as a coalition.

PKR, in an attempt to ensure the fallout between its allies does not cause the fall of the two governments that PR rules — Selangor and Penang — has since said that the spirit of the pact lives on although it no longer functions formally.

PAS, on the other hand, has continued to insist that PR still lives on.

The crisis has since triggered talk of the possible formation of a new alliance, one that will include a new party to replace PAS.