Bersatu leader warns of crisis in PN after PAS veep’s resignation

Bersatu leader warns of crisis in PN after PAS veep’s resignation

PAS vice-president Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar quitting as Perikatan Nasional treasurer raises concerns over potential leadership struggles in the coalition.

A Bersatu leader says PN chairman Muhyiddin Yassin must address any issue that PAS may have if he wants to strengthen the coalition.
PETALING JAYA:
A Bersatu leader has voiced concerns over a potential crisis within Perikatan Nasional after PAS vice-president Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar abruptly resigned as the coalition’s treasurer.

The move was believed to be PAS’s strongest message yet about Muhyiddin Yassin’s leadership of PN.

The leader, speaking anonymously, said the PN leadership must urgently address the matter to prevent internal divisions that could hurt the coalition’s chances in the next general election.

“Whether coincidental or not, Samsuri’s action came after key appointments were announced. Muhyiddin, as chairman, must consider whether PAS is dissatisfied with the current arrangements,” the source told FMT.

“This cannot be taken lightly, as PAS may be signalling that they are protesting over a decision they feel was made unilaterally.”

On Wednesday, Samsuri confirmed he had submitted his resignation, which came just two days after several Bersatu leaders were appointed to key PN roles, including Azmin Ali as secretary-general.

In addition to Azmin, Bersatu deputy president Hamzah Zainudin was named PN deputy chairman, vice-president Ahmad Faizal Azumu was given the role of PN information chief, and Wanita Bersatu chief Mas Ermieyati Samsudin was appointed head of the coalition’s women’s wing.

Two other Bersatu vice-presidents – Ronald Kiandee and Radzi Jidin – were appointed to the PN Supreme Council.

On PAS’s side, party president Abdul Hadi Awang serves as PN deputy chairman, while Takiyuddin Hassan is deputy secretary-general, and Kedah menteri besar Sanusi Nor is the election director.

Separately, a source familiar with PN’s top-level meeting on Monday claimed that the key appointments were pre-arranged and made without any prior consultation.

“Many were surprised when names for key roles were already listed at the meeting, with no discussion, just a request for confirmation.

“Even Tok Guru Hadi stayed unusually quiet, as if sending a message,” the source said, adding that the resignation of his former political secretary (Samsuri) might be linked to this development.

“If this continues, PN’s future looks uncertain under Muhyiddin.”

FMT has reached out to PN leaders, including Azmin, for comments.

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