PAS drops Mahfuz as candidate in GE14

(The Star) – PAS has decided to drop Datuk Mahfuz Omar (pic) as its party candidate in the 14th general election.

Mahfuz, who is the current Pokok Sena MP, has held the seat for two terms.

In a press conference on Saturday, Kedah PAS deputy commissioner Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor explained that the decision was made because Mahfuz was too close with Pakatan Harapan which is not on friendly terms with the Islamist party.

“Whether or not he announces his exit from PAS, we will just say bye-bye.

“I can confirm that he is not in our list of candidates for the next polls. He can look for another platform,” he added.

Muhammad Sanusi said PAS is confident in wresting Kedah back from Barisan Nasional.

“PAS is currently in top form to go against BN and we will fight in all seats. If Pakatan Harapan wants to join in, they are welcomed,” he said, adding that the party was prepared for multi-cornered fights.

Muhammad Sanusi said that PAS is planning to contest in 36 state seats and 15 parliamentary seats in Kedah.

His remarks come after Mahfuz and three other PAS leaders were seen attending the Parti Amanah Negara (Amanah) National Convention on Saturday.

Mahfuz told reporters that the reason why he hasn’t left PAS is because he wanted to send a message to its grassroots members that it is possible to support Pakatan Harapan without leaving the party.

Mahfuz is believed to be estranged from his party colleagues, and often sides with Pakatan Harapan, which PAS has disassociated itself from.

He is also often seen with members of Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia which is led by former prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad.