KUALA LUMPUR: Pas president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang has accused an unnamed Perikatan Nasional (PN) component party of turning its back on the coalition, while insisting ties among the remaining parties remain strong.
He said PN's administration and management had been conducted in accordance with the coalition's constitution, despite the Registrar of Societies' (RoS) decision to cancel its registration.
"All aspects of PN's administration and management have been carried out properly and in accordance with the coalition's constitution.
"Harmony among the component parties remains very strong, except for one party that has distanced itself and turned its back on the coalition," he said in a statement.
Hadi did not identify the party he was referring to.
His remarks come amid strained relations between Pas and Bersatu, with both parties having contested against each other in previous state elections.
Earlier, Pas deputy president Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man told the New Straits Times that the two parties had not cooperated since the Johor and Negri Sembilan elections.
He confirmed that Pas and Bersatu would again face each other in the Melaka state election, while Pas would maintain its electoral understanding with Umno.
Meanwhile, Hadi condemned the government's alleged role in PN's deregistration, describing the decision as an attempt to restrict democratic rights.
He expressed disappointment that the decision had been made before the court could rule on PN's legal challenge.
"Pas regrets this action, which appears to pre-empt the court's decision, restrict democratic rights guaranteed under the Constitution and reflect growing fear on the part of the government," he said.
Hadi said Pas would continue working with like-minded PN component parties to determine its next course of action, including preparations for the Melaka state election and legal proceedings to challenge the deregistration.
He also thanked party members, supporters and undecided voters who hoped for a change in the country's leadership, while urging all parties to respect the law and democratic principles.
PN, formed in 2020 following the Sheraton Move, had its registration cancelled under subparagraph 13(1)(c)(iv) of the Societies Act 1966.
RoS said the coalition's representations submitted on Oct 12 had failed to refute the grounds for cancellation outlined in its Sept 22 notice.
The Melaka state assembly was dissolved on Sept 23, with polling scheduled for Nov 14.
The Election Commission has fixed Oct 31 for nominations and Nov 10 for early voting.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
