PETALING JAYA: PAS president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang has given a glowing tribute to Bersatu president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin for his services and sacrifices while helming Perikatan Nasional (Perikatan) as its chairman.
In a statement issued hours after the appointment of PAS vice-president and Terengganu Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar to the post, Abdul Hadi said that PAS remains committed to the coalition.
Abdul Hadi’s statement sheds new light on a rocky relationship between the top leadership of PAS and Bersatu, especially after the Perlis impasse last December. PAS had alleged that the situation was a conspiracy by Bersatu to oust the party from the state leadership.
"I welcome the trust given by all component parties of Perikatan Nasional who agreed with my proposal to appoint Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar as the new chairman of Perikatan.
"PAS once again records its highest appreciation to Muhyiddin Yassin for all the services, contributions and dedication he rendered while leading Perikatan. May Allah bless all the efforts and sacrifices of Tan Sri," said Abdul Hadi.
He added that PAS remains committed to strengthening Perikatan collectively and inclusively, and to translating the values of moderation and justice for all for the sake of national stability.
Relations between Abdul Hadi and Muhyiddin have been strained since the Perlis crisis, which saw Bersatu allegedly plotting the removal of PAS Mentri Besar Mohd Shukri Ramli to appoint its own state chief, Abu Bakar Hamzah, in his place.
Abdul Hadi had previously declined to succeed Muhyiddin, citing health issues, after the latter resigned on Jan 1 following calls from several PAS leaders for him to step down.
Tensions further escalated after Muhyiddin sacked his deputy president and Opposition Leader Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin on Feb 13. However, hours later, Hamzah was seen visiting Abdul Hadi in Rusila, Terengganu.
