Pas Youth Criticizes DAP Leader's Remarks on Zahid's PM Prospects

The Pas Youth Movement has strongly criticized DAP leader Tony Pua for linking a potential Barisan Nasional (BN) victory in the 16th General Election (GE16) to Ahmad Zahid Hamidi becoming Prime Minister. Dr. Tengku Muhammad Fakhruddin Tengku Muhammad Fauzi, Pas Youth's Director of Elections, questioned the basis of Pua's statement and defended Zahid's potential to hold the premiership.

Fakhruddin pointed out the perceived hypocrisy, noting that leaders from Pakatan Harapan (PH), including one who had been imprisoned, eventually became Prime Minister. He reminded that PH and Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim himself accepted UMNO and Zahid to form the current government. "So, don't suddenly make Ahmad Zahid a 'ghost' to scare voters when UMNO starts talking about Malay unity," he stated.

Tony Pua had reportedly urged voters to support PH in GE16, claiming that Ahmad Zahid, who is also the BN Chairman, would become Prime Minister if BN won. Fakhruddin argued that the crucial issue for GE16 is not who becomes Prime Minister, but rather the need for UMNO and Pas to find common ground for Malay and Islamic unity.

He urged against allowing the question of the Prime Minister's identity to hinder cooperation between the two largest Malay-Islamic parties. Fakhruddin emphasized that the appointment of a Prime Minister is a constitutional process, ultimately decided by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong based on majority support in the Dewan Rakyat. He suggested that Pua's real concern might be the potential shift in Malaysia's political landscape if Malays unite, rather than Zahid himself assuming the top post. "Don't get caught up in the 'who is PM' bait. Unite Malay and Islamic strength first. Build a stable and just government for all citizens. Leave the question of who is PM to the democratic and constitutional process," he concluded.