He said the directive, contained in an internal circular signed by party secretary-general Azmin Ali, violated members’ rights and freedom guaranteed under Malaysian laws.

The circular, currently making the rounds on social media, warned members against meeting those who had been disciplined by the party, and from being involved in events with them.

The authenticity of the circular was confirmed to FMT by Bersatu assemblyman Dr Afif Bahardin.

The circular did not identify anyone in particular. It comes 10 days after Bersatu suspended Wan Fayhsal, and expelled Tasek Gelugor MP Wan Saiful Wan Jan and four division chiefs.

Wan Fayhsal said in a statement this evening that the directive contravened the Federal Constitution which guaranteed the right of association and freedom of speech.

“By prohibiting members from interacting, discussing or attending programmes linked to certain individuals, the directive is restricting the rights of members to socialise and change views freely. This goes against democratic principles,” he said.

Wan Fayhsal, who is Machang MP, also said the Societies Act did not empower any party official to control the personal lives of members. Rather, he said, the law stipulated that registered societies must operate democratically.

“The circular therefore can be regarded as a form of abuse of power,” he said.

Wan Fayhsal said that the ban was unreasonable, and served to instill fear among members. It could also be used to pressure those with differing views.

He said the matter should be reported to the Registrar of Societies for appropriate action to be taken.

FMT has sought comment from Azmin.