SHAH ALAM - Pas has reaffirmed that discussions over a Prime Minister candidate from Perikatan Nasional (PN) are premature, stressing that the coalition should instead concentrate on pressing national issues and the rising cost of living.
Deputy president Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man said the matter should not take precedence, especially as no election date has been set.
"What is important is that the election date has not even been set and the current focus must be on issues happening in the country and the cost of living. Pas’ priority at this time is also on strengthening PN together with other component parties," he told Sinar.
His remarks came after Bersatu president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin clarified that the appointment of Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar as PN chairman does not automatically make the Terengganu Menteri Besar the coalition’s Prime Minister candidate.
The Pagoh MP said selecting a Prime Minister candidate for the 16th General Election is a separate matter from appointing the coalition chairman. He added that the issue has yet to be discussed with Pas.
Tuan Ibrahim further emphasised that attention should be directed towards more urgent matters, including geopolitical developments.
"The issue of war in Iran is far more important to be discussed at this time," he said.
Meanwhile, Pas treasurer-general Datuk Iskandar Abdul Samad acknowledged that the Prime Minister candidate need not necessarily be the PN chairman if the coalition wins the General Election.
However, he expressed confidence that PN would most likely select its chairman for the post.
"Moreover, in the current situation, the new PN chairman, Dr Ahmad Samsuri, has brought new spirit to PN. The majority of the people acknowledge that he possesses the characteristics suitable for a Prime Minister.
"A moderate technocrat who can be accepted by every level of Malaysian society," he said.
He added that it would be unlikely for PN to choose another individual should it secure victory. Nevertheless, he pointed out that the appointment of the Prime Minister ultimately rests with the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and must be respected.