PETALING JAYA: PAS president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang has hinted he may step down from the position for health reasons.
It is understood that the Marang MP expressed his intention to the party's top leadership during a retreat in Terengganu last weekend.
According to a source, this revelation opened the door to internal discussions within the ulama (religious scholars) faction, which is currently working to persuade deputy president Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man to take over.
"This matter was raised by Hadi himself during the retreat last weekend, where he implied that he is unwell," Sinar Harian reported on Friday (June 6).
"So, he conveyed that he might step down. That's what sparked the current discussion," the source was quoted as saying.
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As a result, the source said party Dewan Ulama member Mokhtar Senik proposed that candidates for the president and deputy president's posts be vetted by the Syura Council, PAS' highest decision-making body.
This was to ensure the quality and qualifications of those holding these positions, he added.
Vice president Datuk Mohd Ahmad Nik Abdullah said that if the president decides to step down, the position must be filled by the deputy.
However, questions have arisen over whether or not Tuan Ibrahim is prepared to take the top post.
"Hadi has set a high benchmark. Perhaps that's why (Tuan Ibrahim may be reluctant)," the source added.
It was reported that Hadi suffered health complications in June 2023 and was admitted to Hospital Putrajaya after experiencing shortness of breath before being transferred to the National Heart Institute for further treatment.
