Fahmi Fadzil referred to the draft memorandum of understanding (MOU) on the allocation of funds to opposition lawmakers when quizzed on the prospect of PAS joining the coalition government.

“Not me (who invited PAS),” the government spokesperson quipped to reporters this afternoon.

“I do not wish to comment on this matter. But all I can mention is from the aspect of the MOU. Because this is being scrutinised by the deputy prime minister (Fadillah Yusof). We are waiting for the process (to end),” he added.

Fahmi was asked to comment on PAS spiritual leader Hashim Jasin stating that efforts have been made to rope the Islamist party into the government.

However, he added that PAS has to weigh the pros and cons before making a decision, especially concerning the presence of its archnemesis DAP in the government.

Denials

It should be noted that Hashim’s claims followed earlier denials by party president Abdul Hadi Awang and his deputy Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man that the party had entered talks to join the Pakatan Harapan-BN-led coalition government.

DPM Fadillah Yusof

On Monday, Fadillah said the government had yet to receive any feedback from the opposition regarding the draft MOU.

“Ask the opposition. We haven’t received anything yet. There is no response from them,” he said briefly after an Energy Commission event in Putrajaya.

On Aug 20, Perikatan Nasional chief whip Takiyuddin Hassan was reported to have said they had received the draft MOU and would discuss it soon.

Takiyuddin previously said the draft needed to be presented to Perikatan Nasional chairperson Muhyiddin Yassin and other leaders for a decision.

On July 9, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim stated that the issue of fund allocation to opposition MPs should not be a complicated matter to resolve.

He said the conditions for any opposition MP seeking to obtain allocations are basic requirements and standard procedures in any negotiation and democratic practice.

Opposition MPs yet to respond on draft MOU for funding, Fadillah says

Opposition MPs yet to respond on draft MOU for funding, Fadillah says

Opposition MP allocation: Draft MOU ready for submission - Fadillah

Opposition MP allocation: Draft MOU ready for submission - Fadillah

No political discussions between PAS and Madani coalition - Samsuri

No political discussions between PAS and Madani coalition - Samsuri

Avoid being bitten twice, Zahid says on parties courting Umno

Avoid being bitten twice, Zahid says on parties courting Umno

Harapan leaders dismiss Umno-PAS talks as mere propaganda

Harapan leaders dismiss Umno-PAS talks as mere propaganda

Bersatu should be worried sick over Umno-PAS talks, Fahmi says

Bersatu should be worried sick over Umno-PAS talks, Fahmi says