Don’t be arrogant, PAS leader tells Umno

PETALING JAYA: PAS’s Mahfodz Mohamed has ticked off Umno leaders over their perceived arrogance, following the Islamic party’s pledge to back Barisan Nasional if the coalition fails to secure a simple majority at the Johor state election on Saturday.

The Johor PAS chief said his party and Perikatan Nasional would adopt a measured approach in the event BN did not have the numbers to form the next state government, to ensure political stability and the wellbeing of the people.

He added that PAS was not looking to reap any rewards by backing BN after the polls.

“Hence, Johor Umno leaders should not respond in such an arrogant way to our sincere offer,” Mahfodz said in a statement.

While Mahfodz did not direct his statement to anyone in particular, it is believed to be in response to Johor Barisan Nasional chairman Onn Hafiz Ghazi’s assurance that PAS would not be part of the state government if the coalition is returned to power.

Onn Hafiz’s remarks follow PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang’s pledge that his party was ready to support BN to enable the formation of a government with a simple majority.

Hadi also said BN could retain the menteri besar post and that PAS would not demand any position in the state government.

Mahfodz went on to say that PAS’s offer to back BN should not be interpreted as a sign of weakness.

“Our stance is clear. Johor’s stability is our priority and it goes beyond ego and narrow party interests.”