PAS leaders usually remain until death - Takiyuddin

PAS secretary-general Takiyuddin Hassan has dismissed talk of a leadership transition in the party, stressing that top positions are typically held until the leader passes away.

“In PAS’ history, key leadership roles are usually held until the individual dies,” he told Malaysiakini in Putrajaya yesterday, on the sidelines of the Malaysian Bar’s “Walk for Judicial Independence”.

The Kota Bharu MP was responding to recent speculation surrounding PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang’s position, amid internal chatter over possible changes at the top.

“From our close observation, the issue of Tok Guru (Hadi) not wanting to contest should not arise.

“It has never been an issue – only assumptions from certain quarters, perhaps because they see that Tok Guru is unwell, and so on,” Takiyuddin added.

Hadi - who has led the party for over 20 years - recently signalled his intention to remain as party president and confirmed that he would defend the post at PAS’ 71st muktamar in Kedah in September.

This followed speculation over whether the Islamist party would see a change in leadership if Hadi were to step down.

A pro-ulama faction known as Geng Ustaz recently raised alarm over alleged attempts to “challenge the president”, describing the matter as a “long-standing sore” in the party.

Geng Ustaz leader Ahmad Dusuki Abd Rani went further to label those challenging the clerical leadership as “devils among humans and genies”.

The internal tension comes as PAS divisions across the country hold their respective election in the lead-up to the muktamar.

Settling rumours

Takiyuddin cited previous PAS leaders – including former president Fadzil Noor and former spiritual adviser Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat – as examples of those who remained in office until their deaths.

“So, in Islam, as long as we are able, we continue to struggle for Islam.

“Just like in prayer – if you can’t stand, you sit; if you can’t sit, you lie down. That’s the concept Tok Guru (Hadi) follows.

“We believe this settles the rumours of any leadership change in PAS. I am confident there won’t be any, especially for the two top positions - president and deputy,” he said.

He added that a minimum of 20 nominations is required for a candidate to contest for positions from the president to the central committee.

Separately, Takiyuddin confirmed that former prime minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad is expected to attend the “Turun Anwar” rally planned for July 26.

“We have received confirmation that Mahathir will also be present,” he said.

'Consult us first,' PAS tells Bersatu on PN decisions

Police must facilitate 'Turun Anwar' rally after court ruling: PAS

'Mind your words': PAS veep warns Zahid after remarks on Kelantan

'I want to die while still serving': Hadi to defend PAS chief post