KOTA BHARU – Pas president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang rejects claims that he plays a dominant role in decision-making within Perikatan Nasional (PN), stressing that decisions are made collectively through consultation.
Speaking during a press conference with media members at Pusat Tarbiyah Islam Kelantan (PUTIK) here today, Hadi said Pas practised an open approach in its internal discussions, where leaders were free to express their views.
“That is not true. We make decisions through consultation. We practise democracy,” he said.
He said Pas meetings differed from parties where members might simply agree with their leaders, stressing that opinions could be openly expressed during discussions.
“In Pas, discussions are open. There may be a slight difference compared with some parties where the leader says something and everyone says yes. In Pas, we can give our views openly,” he said.
Hadi was responding to claims that Pas had been dominating decision-making within PN.
His remarks came as Pas held its 72nd Annual Muktamar at PUTIK, with the party's top leadership and delegates gathered for the annual assembly.
The muktamar, which began today, is being held against the backdrop of ongoing political discussions involving Pas, Umno and other opposition parties ahead of the next general election.
Meanwhile, Hadi also said Pas remained open to continued discussions with other parties including Umno but stressed that the form of cooperation would depend on the political situation.
“We are always open, and we will continue discussions according to the current circumstances,” he said.
On Pas' approach to cooperation, Hadi said the party had extensive experience working with Umno and that cooperation could be developed in stages, beginning with practical cooperation before moving towards greater understanding.
He said the priority was to strengthen the Malay-Muslim political unity agenda while ensuring the interests of non-Muslims were not neglected.