Bersatu, PAS to discuss issue of 27 ‘critical’ parliamentary seats

Bersatu will be holding discussions with PAS pertaining to issues of a potential clash with Umno in 27 ‘critical’ parliamentary seats during the looming 15th general election (GE15).

Bersatu secretary-general Hamzah Zainudin (above) stressed that the matter will be deliberated with PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang.

“We will meet and discuss this matter with (PAS) president,” he was quoted as saying by Berita Harian at a presser after launching a Home Ministry event in Larut last night.

Malaysiakini had previously reported that PAS is set to clash with Umno in at least 27 parliamentary seats - most of which are in Kelantan and Terengganu, in the upcoming national polls.

However, sources say that the Islamist party is at risk of losing many of the seats, as they were won in the 14th general election by a slim majority, and the seats were previously held by Umno or BN.

PAS central committee member Zuhdi Marsuki was also reported as saying that Bersatu should not challenge Umno in those seats although Perikatan Nasional (PN) chairperson Muhyiddin Yassin had labelled Umno as their “main enemy”.

Zuhdi said it is to ensure that those seats do not fall into the hands of Pakatan Harapan after BN and PN decided not to cooperate in GE15.

Contesting in Larut

Meanwhile, Hamzah also alluded that he will be defending the Larut parliamentary seat.

“Where else do you want me to contest in?” he was quoted as saying when asked about the matter.

“What is the most important is the acceptance of the people because I am not just carrying the name of the Larut MP but also on the basis of the interest of religion, race and country.

“My crusade is consistent.”

He also cited the time Prophet Muhammad changed flags during the war but remained steadfast in his crusade.

He was quoted as saying by the Malay daily that a leader should carry the image of his followers and he is “grateful that PAS is determined to stick with PN in ensuring the struggle continues to be consistent”.

“If we want to be together, we can’t put conditions on what this person can or cannot do.

“If we want it all, we’ll need to come together so that there is unity in our fight,” said Hamzah.

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