Despite PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang’s confirmation that he will defend his position at the party’s upcoming annual general assembly, the party has apparently not shut the door on internal democracy.

Its spiritual leader Hashim Jasin said PAS’ policy allows for contests for the president and deputy president posts if there are nominations, but he does not expect anyone to challenge Hadi.

“Our policy is that the posts of president and deputy president are open for contest, as long as there are nominations. The president wants to contest again, and if anyone wants to go up against him, it’s allowed.

“We do not restrict these top positions from being contested. But the question is - who would want to go against Hadi?

“It’s up to them. If someone is nominated and they’re willing to contest, they can. But I’m confident no one will,” he was quoted as saying by Berita Harian.

Hadi recently confirmed he will defend the presidency at the 71st PAS muktamar this September.

A pro-ulama faction within PAS known as Geng Ustaz had previously 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”.

Hadi was named PAS president in 2002 to succeed Fadzil Noor and defended his post against Ahmad Awang during the party’s 61st muktamar in 2015.

‘Body may be weak, but mind still sharp’

On Hadi’s health, Hashim said that while the Marang MP may appear physically frail, his mental faculties remain intact.

PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang

“We’ve seen him needing assistance to get on stage, but he could still speak for two hours. That shows his mind is still sharp.

“It’s just his body that’s not strong, but he can still articulate ideas and share his views. What PAS needs is that kind of intellectual input,” he added.

Hashim also dismissed claims that PAS members are blindly loyal to Hadi and unwilling to accept new leaders.

“That’s not true. We don’t impose restrictions like other parties. We’ve never said that.

“It’s just that the president is ready to lead again, so it’s not an issue,” he added.

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