Umno would have given former Selangor PAS commissioner Hasan Ali 'a chance to defend himself' and not expelled him arbitrarily, as PAS has done.

"That is a PAS internal matter, which we have never interfered in. But in Umno, we have our own democratic system based on Islam,” Umno deputy president Muhyiddin Yassin said today.

“If a member commits an offence, he won't be expelled out of hand. No disciplinary action will be taken without giving him a chance to defend himself," Muhyiddin told a press conference in Putrajaya today.

Hasan ali pc "Since PAS has its own system of absolute power, it does what it did to Hasan (left) . See how Umno is more considerate, compared to others?"

Muhyiddin explained that Umno would give due notice to offenders and has a disciplinary body in place, which would issue show-cause letters to the individuals concerned and allow them time to issue a defence.

“Then we decide, especially if it involves a senior leader in the party or in serious cases... This has been going on in Umno for ages,” Muhyiddin commented.

He said this on the recent sacking of Hasan by the PAS central working committee.

‘Umno did not invite Hasan’

Quizzed about the offer made by Umno veep Ahmad Zahid Hamidi to Hasan to use the Malay party as a platform to continue his struggle, Muhyiddin said that it was not a formal offer from the party.

“In that case, we (Umno) never made any offer. I believe Hasan is an intelligent and experienced leader. If he feels drawn to any political organisation, that is his choice.

“If the struggle for Islam is no longer PAS’ struggle, then it is up to his wisdom to make his own decision,” offered Muhyiddin.

Asked if Umno would open their doors to Hasan, the DPM said that there is nothing to be excited about in this case nor is there reason to rush things.

“Umno opens its doors to everyone if they are interested and are ready to fight for us.”

He said that if Hasan’s heart is aligned to Umno and its struggle for Islam, then the former PAS member is already on the same page with the Malay party.

“It is up to him,” concluded Muhyiddin.