Bersatu Fires Back at PAS, Warns Against Interference in Party Affairs

KUALA LUMPUR: Bersatu has firmly told PAS to stay out of its internal affairs, insisting that disciplinary actions taken against several party leaders earlier this year were lawful and in line with the party constitution.

In a strongly worded statement issued on Sunday, Bersatu’s political bureau responded to allegations made by PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang regarding the removal of Bersatu deputy president Hamzah Zainudin and several other party members in February.

The party stressed that the Registrar of Societies (ROS) had already confirmed that the disciplinary actions were constitutional and properly carried out under Bersatu’s internal rules.

“PAS should respect and not interfere in the internal affairs of other component parties,” the bureau said, adding that disciplinary measures are necessary to maintain stability and integrity within the party.

Bersatu also rejected allegations that the sackings had disrupted the administrations of Kedah and Kelantan. PAS had previously claimed that Bersatu attempted to reshuffle state executive council members and deputy speakers following the expulsions.

According to Bersatu, the affected individuals held government positions as representatives of the party, and replacement names were submitted after they lost their membership status.

The party explained that the disciplinary action followed complaints, investigations, and hearings conducted by its disciplinary board under Clause 22.5 of the party constitution.

Bersatu further revealed that ROS, in a letter dated May 7, concluded its investigation and confirmed that the party’s actions complied with its constitution.

The latest exchange highlights growing tensions within the opposition coalition Perikatan Nasional, where relations between Bersatu and PAS have reportedly become strained in recent months.

On May 22, Abdul Hadi Awang said PAS would review its cooperation with Bersatu, accusing the party of failing to honour promises and blocking the entry of other political parties into Perikatan Nasional.

He also defended the Kedah exco members and Kelantan deputy speaker removed following Bersatu’s disciplinary action, saying they had done nothing wrong in carrying out their official duties.

Despite the criticism, PAS has not made a final decision on ending cooperation with Bersatu, although the party’s central committee reportedly held an emergency meeting earlier on Sunday.