Abu Hafiz said Pejuang’s decision to apply to join PN as a component party contradicted his stand to “oppose extremism that abuses Malay-Muslim sentiments”.

“I have personally taken the initiative to oppose the speeches, statements and narratives which have been used excessively by PN, especially PAS, that openly manipulate race and religion,” he said in a statement.

“Therefore, I have informed the Pejuang secretary-general’s office of the termination of my Pejuang membership so I can focus on my academic duties and other matters.

“May Pejuang and its leadership continue to be led by God.”

Abu Hafiz had announced his resignation as the Pejuang Youth chief last December after the party’s abysmal showing in the last general election, in which all its candidates lost their deposits.

Earlier today, Pejuang president Mukhriz Mahathir announced that the party had applied to join PN as a component party.

He said Pejuang’s central executive council decided that it was not sufficient for the party to only form an electoral pact to avoid seat clashes.

The former Kedah menteri besar also said joining PN would be key to preventing any split in Malay votes.

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