GHB cannot use Islam in party’s name, says ROS

(Bernama) – The Registrar of Societies (ROS) has rejected an application from Gerakan Harapan Baru (GHB) to name its newly formed party Progressive Islamic Party.

Deputy Prime Minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said this was because Islam belonged to all Muslims and the use of its name for political parties could only cause confusion.

“They are hoping for PAS members, who do not agree with ulamas and take the approach that Islam is progressive, to support the party.

“We cannot allow any party to use the name of the religion as Islam does not only belong to them but to all Muslims and for Muslims who do not have a party,” he said.

He was speaking at the opening of the Marang Umno divisional delegates meeting at the Marang District Council hall, here today.

The meeting was also attended by Terengganu Umno Liaison Committee chairman and Menteri Besar Ahmad Razif Abdul Rahman and Marang UMNO division head A Latif Awang.

As Home Minister, Zahid said he did not want to repeat the mistake of the past by allowing another political party to use Islam as it had caused confusion among Muslims in the country.

“We do not want the past mistake of giving consent to a party using the name of Islam as it gives the perception that only by joining the party we are struggling for Islam and able go to heaven.”

In this regard, he said the ROS would be sending GHB a letter to choose a new party name.

He said as a democratic country, the government had never prevented any group from setting up new political parties in the country.