BATU PAHAT: The absence of top PKR and DAP leaders at PAS’ inaugural annual general meeting (muktamar) in Johor has fuled speculation that the Pakatan Rakyat coalition is close to breaking up.
The non-attendance of PKR president Datuk Seri Dr Wan Azizah and DAP stalwart Lim Kit Siang from the muktamar was noticeable as they had always attended previous PAS meetings.
Instead, the party’s partners sent second and third liners to represent them.
DAP sent deputy secretary-general Anthony Loke and Youth chief Liew Chin Tong while PKR sent vice-presidents Tian Chua and Shamsul Iskandar Mohd Akin.
PAS secretary-general Datuk Mustafa Ali brushed off the absence of top Pakatan leaders, saying the party’s counterparts were preoccupied with other matters.
“Busy ... They’re all busy,” he told a press conference later.
PAS president Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang, who was also present said those who attended the opening were capable of representing their parties.
The three-day PAS muktamar is being held in Umno’s Johor fortress for the first time in the party's history.
The main agenda expected to take centre stage is the PAS’ stand on political cooperation with PKR and DAP.
Already a subscriber? Log in
Get 20% OFF The Star Digital Access
Cancel anytime. Ad-free. Unlimited access with perks.
