TANJUNG MALIM: The suspension of Perikatan Nasional by the Registrar of Societies (ROS) was not an ad hoc decision but was based on a complaint from one of the coalition’s component parties, says Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
The Deputy Prime Minister claimed that there had been several shortcomings within Perikatan which led to the suspension being imposed by the ROS, which had only acted within its powers to safeguard the members of registered organisations.
“The Societies Act 1966 is intended to safeguard the interests of members of any organisation registered with the ROS.
“The ROS exercises its discretion based on the constitutions of any body or organisation registered with the ROS,” he told reporters after the Central Zone Polytechnic and Community College Convocation Ceremony held at Universiti Pendidikan Sultan Idris here on Thursday (Sept 24).
Ahmad Zahid hoped the matter would be dealt with calmly, especially by the parties that are part of Perikatan, as they will be facing the Melaka state election and would also take part in the next general election.
“They certainly have their own plans. If the suspension is continued, the component parties can use their respective party symbols to contest in the Melaka state election or the next general election,” he said
On cooperation with other political parties in Melaka, Ahmad Zahid said Barisan Nasional would hold discussions with any coalition or political party interested in establishing an understanding with the coalition.
He said he had given the mandate to the state Barisan chief Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh, together with officials, to conduct discussions and negotiations.
“I and my colleagues in the Barisan supreme council and UMNO leadership will finalise the matter after the discussions and negotiations have been conducted by the Barisan Melaka,” he said.
On Wednesday, Perikatan had confirmed that it had received a notice from the ROS seeking an explanation of why the coalition should not be deregistered.
Sources within the coalition had said the letter was sent to the Perikatan chairman and secretary-general on Tuesday.
ROS confirmed receiving an official complaint from Bersatu, claiming that the party was not included in a Perikatan supreme council meeting held on July 16.
