Political analysts say the race to become the next Perikatan Nasional (PN) chairman has largely narrowed to PAS leaders Samsuri Mokhtar and Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor, though a slim chance remains for Muhyiddin Yassin to stay on.
PAS Likely to Claim Leadership Role
Syaza Shukri, a senior lecturer in political science at the International Islamic University Malaysia, said it appears PAS intends to take the chairmanship, with an understanding within the coalition to that effect.
She noted that Samsuri is the name most frequently mentioned from within PAS. However, the party’s ulama faction reportedly favours Sanusi over him.
Syaza added that Bersatu is unlikely to push for the post, given PAS’s apparent determination to lead. She cautioned that the outcome may not be straightforward.
“If Muhyiddin were to retain the position, it could create a narrative challenge for PAS after Abdul Hadi Awang had indicated that the coalition would now be spearheaded by PAS,” she told the New Straits Times.
She said it is not impossible for Muhyiddin to return if the parties fail to agree on a candidate, though this would suggest PAS lacks a suitable internal choice and could pose political difficulties for the party.
Focus on Samsuri, Sanusi and Hamzah
Mohammad Tawfik Yaakub, a senior lecturer in political science at Universiti Malaya, identified Samsuri as PAS’s primary candidate, with sacked Bersatu leader Hamzah Zainudin as a possible alternative.
“I do not expect Muhyiddin to be chosen again as PN chairman, as relations between PAS and Muhyiddin have appeared somewhat strained,” he said.
“The two names I see are Samsuri and Hamzah.”
Tawfik stressed that a decision on the opposition leader must come soon, with Parliament due to sit on Monday. He suggested Hamzah is more likely to take the opposition leader role, while the PN chairmanship contest would centre on Samsuri and Sanusi.
He pointed out that PAS has historically been comfortable allowing others to hold the top position while maintaining strong influence through its organisational strength.
“PAS is strong in terms of its machinery and organisational capacity, and it does not necessarily need to be at the forefront within PN,” he said.
“As long as it sees someone can generate momentum and deliver electoral gains, the party would support that person as chairman.”
Different Views on Abdul Hadi Possibility
Mohd Azizuddin Mohd Sani, a political analyst from Universiti Utara Malaysia, predicted that PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang could emerge as chairman, citing his seniority.
“I think it will be the president, Abdul Hadi, because based on rank he is the highest,” he said.
“If it is someone else, it may be difficult for them to command the coalition and they may hesitate to make tough decisions.”
Azizuddin added that the only other realistic candidate he sees is Muhyiddin, while ruling out Samsuri due to the need to navigate PAS’s internal hierarchy.
Yesterday, Abdul Hadi announced that the PN meeting at PAS headquarters would discuss not only the new chairman but also the appointment of a new opposition leader in Parliament.
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