Pas risks stagnation as unchanged leadership raises concerns ahead of GE16

SHAH ALAM - Pas’ long-standing leadership may place the party at risk of stagnation, with analysts warning it could struggle to attract younger voters and fresh political ideas as the 16th General Election (GE16) approaches.

Universiti Malaya senior lecturer Dr Mohammad Tawfik Yaakub said the party’s move to retain its top leadership without contest could alienate young fence-sitters from Pas.

He said the driving force behind this decision was the concept of walak (loyalty), which continues to hold a firm grip on Pas members and leaders, serving as the guiding principle in every assembly.

“In fact, this concept makes it difficult for the party to embrace change and refresh its politics, something it needs to compete in the country’s current political landscape.

“The party has also struggled to embrace professionals in its highest ranks. Only Terengganu Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar represents that camp among Pas’ top leadership,” he told Sinar.

On Thursday, Pas Central Election Committee chairman Wan Rohimi Wan Daud confirmed that Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang had secured another term as president, a position he has held for 23 years, after winning uncontested at the party’s 71st annual general assembly.

Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang - Photo by Bernama

Kubang Kerian MP Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man also retained his role as deputy president while vice-presidents Ahmad Samsuri, Datuk Idris Ahmad and Datuk Nik Amar Abdullah remained in their posts, leaving the top five unchanged.

Looking to the future, Tawfik identified Samsuri as the most qualified successor to Abdul Hadi.

“He is also close to Abdul Hadi and has state administration experience. Moreover, he is not rejected by the pro-ulama faction, unlike other professional leaders.

“Therefore, he is the most suitable to rejuvenate the party and broaden its influence among fence-sitters and non-partisan voters,” he added.

Meanwhile, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin political analyst Dr Hussain Yusri Zawawi offered a different view, suggesting that continuity in leadership could equally be regarded as a source of strength.

At the same time, he cautioned that in the context of modern politics, it might also carry the risk of stagnation.

“A party that has been led by the same leadership for too long risks losing innovation, especially in generating fresh ideas and political strategies capable of attracting younger generations.

“Delegates’ choice not to field challengers stemmed from three factors: Abdul Hadi’s charisma as a unifying figure, Pas’ culture of loyalty which discourages internal contests and a belief that maintaining the status quo would safeguard the party’s survival in elections and political alliances,” he said.