Tensions over PM candidate could undermine PN’s appeal, analyst warns

DISAGREEMENTS between PAS and Bersatu over the choice of Prime Minister candidate risk weakening Perikatan Nasional (PN) and reducing its appeal as a credible alternative to the unity government, a political analyst has warned.

Datuk Prof Dr Awang Azman Awang Pawi of Universiti Malaya said the dispute, if unresolved, could heighten internal tensions and destabilise the coalition’s cohesion.

"If PAS insists on fielding its own candidate, Bersatu may feel sidelined, which could weaken internal cohesion within PN," he told Harian Metro. "On the other hand, if Bersatu continues to reject PAS's proposal, it may be seen as violating the principle that 'the largest party has the right to make the claim', sparking dissatisfaction among PAS grassroots."

The rift follows a resolution passed at Bersatu's Annual General Assembly on 7 September, endorsing party president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin as PN’s Prime Ministerial candidate for the next general election. However, PAS spiritual leader Datuk Hashim Jasin has insisted it is time for PAS to lead the coalition and name its own candidate.

Awang Azman said the debate is not merely about personality, but reflects a deeper ideological struggle within PN.

"This is about whether PN positions itself as an Islamist-conservative coalition, aligned with PAS, or as a nationalist-moderate one, as preferred by Bersatu," he said. "If the coalition fails to unify these two narratives, it will appear disjointed and lose traction among urban middle-class and non-Malay swing voters."

To resolve the impasse, he suggested a more institutionalised approach to candidate selection.

"PAS and Bersatu could establish a ‘PN Presidential Council’ that collectively decides on the Prime Ministerial candidate, rather than leaving it to party dominance alone," he said. "Considerations must include political legitimacy, national acceptability, and international credibility."

Awang Azman added that PAS could propose more moderate and less polarising figures such as Deputy President Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man or Vice-President Datuk Seri Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar as potential candidates.

"Bersatu, meanwhile, could maintain its role as a 'kingmaker', projecting a more moderate national image," he said.

He also noted that despite ideological differences, the two parties remain interdependent — with PAS offering strength in parliamentary seats and Bersatu providing broader image appeal.

"If not handled wisely, this dispute could become a fracture waiting to break within PN," he cautioned. - September 14, 2025