Samsuri's resignation: Analysts see PAS asserting dominance in PN

Summary:

• Analysts believe PAS is asserting dominance in Perikatan Nasional, protesting Bersatu’s leadership through Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar’s resignation as treasurer general.

• PAS should be given key roles in PN reflecting its influence as the party with the most parliamentary seats in the coalition.

• Observers warn that Bersatu must address PAS’ dissatisfaction to prevent weakening the coalition in the run-up to the next general election.

PAS is flexing its muscles to assert its dominance in Perikatan Nasional and show Bersatu who’s boss, according to analysts.

Universiti Malaya political analyst Awang Azman Awang Pawi said PAS vice-president Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar’s sudden resignation as PN treasurer-general is a form of protest against the coalition’s leadership, headed by Bersatu president Muhyiddin Yassin.

He said PAS should be given key positions in the coalition since it has the greatest number of parliamentary seats.

“PAS needs strategic roles that reflect their status as a major party. The allocation of seats doesn’t seem to acknowledge PAS' significant contribution to PN.

“This is pressure on PN's leadership to recognise PAS' contributions. There is a need to renegotiate the distribution of positions in PN, and this is also a strategy by PAS to demonstrate its resolve.

“The next general election is in two or three years, so it’s crucial for PAS to show that they’re not simply following Bersatu’s lead.

“This situation could weaken PN. I believe a realistic renegotiation is necessary. PAS feels it is the true ‘big brother’ in PN,” he told Malaysiakini.

Samsuri’s resignation, he said, is a clear reflection of PAS’ dissatisfaction with Bersatu’s dominance in PN.

Clear signal

Samsuri (above) announced his resignation as PN treasurer-general on Nov 11.

PAS' official media outlet, Harakah Daily, reported that the announcement was made through a brief statement addressed to the PAS’ central leadership.

In the statement, Samsuri said he had submitted his resignation letter to PN’s secretariat that day.

Universiti Teknologi Malaysia geostrategist Azmi Hassan concurred that Samsuri’s resignation is a clear signal of PAS’ protest against PN leadership.

“There is no doubt that this is a protest by PAS against Bersatu, which is seen as making unilateral decisions within PN without consulting PAS as its ally.

“The appointment of Azmin Ali as PN secretary-general was likely made without consultation. I’m certain PAS would have objected if consulted. The prime ministerial candidate is from Bersatu, and so is the opposition leader.

“The role of treasurer-general is a minor one in PN, so PAS loses nothing by making this subtle protest,” he told Malaysiakini.

Azmi stressed that Bersatu needs to understand the message PAS is sending and take immediate action.

Universiti Utara Malaysia political observer Muhammad Afifi Abdul Razak believes PN must address its internal weaknesses promptly.

He said PN should adopt a more democratic approach by promoting leadership that inspires public confidence.

“Samsuri’s move may seem trivial, but it could have significant implications for PN.

“Based on various statements by its leaders, PAS appears to have run out of patience with PN’s actions,” he said.

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