As its ‘last samurai’ chief battles poor health, frontmen from factions in Malaysia’s Islamist party PAS are touted as successor
With reports of the party chief’s frail condition, transition talks are simmering. Potential successors from different factions in the party include Mr Abdul Hadi’s eldest son Dr Muhammad Khalil, and progressive professional Dr Ahmad Samsuri.
(CNA) – Reports of Parti Islam Se-Malaysia (PAS) president Abdul Hadi Awang’s continuing ill health have triggered speculation over a potential successor for the top position of Malaysia’s Islamist party.
Two political rising stars from different factions of the party have emerged as main contenders to succeed the 76-year-old: one a religious legacy candidate, the other a progressive professional.
The differences between Mr Abdul Hadi’s son Dr Muhammad Khalil, and Dr Ahmad Samsuri, as well as their contrasting ideologies representative of the respective camps, have caught the attention of observers and raised questions over the future direction of the party, and whether any potential infighting could disrupt a smooth transition.
Political analysts CNA spoke to believe that it could soon be time for PAS to consider succession. And as the party enjoys its strongest position yet, following a stellar performance in 2023 state elections and looks to attract new voter demographics, the stakes are high for whoever might step up to take the helm.
Associate Professor Yusri Ibrahim, chief researcher at think-tank Ilham Centre told CNA: “In the context of PAS with the concerns over health of the party president, it is perhaps time for the party to commence a leadership transition.
“The snag is that in PAS currently it is unclear who has the most calibre to take over the leadership mantle,” he added.
