Pas is focusing on securing victory in the 16th General Election (GE16) rather than preemptively selecting a candidate for the nation’s 11th Prime Minister, according to Pas Ulama Council chief Ahmad Yahaya.
While Ahmad did not dismiss the possibility of a Pas leader eventually assuming the premiership when circumstances align, he emphasized that the party’s immediate priority is electoral success. He noted that Pas has historically refrained from naming candidates for state Menteri Besar positions in advance, yet its leaders have consistently been chosen when the moment arrives.
“For Pas, our approach is clear: winning the election is paramount. This requires a robust election machinery, meticulous groundwork, and a unified effort to defeat the Pakatan Harapan–Barisan Nasional government,” Ahmad told reporters at the Pas Youth Assembly on Thursday.
“The selection of a prime minister will follow in due course, subject to the consent of His Majesty the King.”
Ahmad further elaborated that when the time is right, Pas would put forward a suitable candidate for national leadership. “At the appropriate moment, a leader will emerge,” he added.
Addressing the recent decision by Bersatu to name its preferred prime ministerial candidate during its annual general assembly last Saturday, Ahmad acknowledged the party’s prerogative to do so. As Kedah Pas Commissioner, he noted that Pas could similarly propose motions at its own Muktamar (congress).
“Bersatu’s assembly allowed its members and leaders to table motions and share their vision for Malaysia’s future. That is their right,” Ahmad said.
“Within Perikatan Nasional, decisions must be made collectively. However, each component party, including Pas, retains the autonomy to propose motions at its own congress. If Gerakan wishes to take a position, they are equally entitled to do so.”
