PAS and Perikatan Nasional (PN) election director Sanusi Nor has urged Bersatu to refrain from making unilateral political decisions, such as naming a prime minister candidate, without the consensus of its coalition partners.
“Bersatu cannot make such decisions independently,” Sanusi told FMT, emphasizing that key choices, including seat allocations in Sabah and the selection of a chief minister candidate, require agreement among PN’s component parties. “My view is that Bersatu should not act with undue haste on its own,” he added.
Sanusi’s remarks follow an announcement by Bersatu secretary-general Azmin Ali that the party’s annual general assembly unanimously endorsed president Muhyiddin Yassin as its prime minister candidate for the upcoming 16th general election (GE16). The decision has reignited tensions within PN, as the choice of a coalition figurehead has long been a point of contention among its member parties.
Last November, PAS spiritual leader Hashim Jasin refuted claims that Muhyiddin was confirmed as PN’s official prime minister candidate, asserting that PAS was equally capable of leading the coalition. Despite this, several Bersatu and Gerakan leaders have publicly backed Muhyiddin for the role.
On July 29, 2025, Hashim reiterated that PN would finalize its prime minister candidate only after securing victory in Putrajaya, signaling ongoing deliberations within the coalition.
Regarding Sabah, Muhyiddin has indicated openness to nominating Bersatu vice-president Ronald Kiandee as a potential chief minister candidate. However, he clarified that the decision rests with the party’s leadership, underscoring the need for internal consensus.
Sanusi’s call for restraint highlights the delicate balance within PN as it navigates internal dynamics and prepares for the electoral challenges ahead.
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