Hashim: PAS Should Contest GE16 Alone if PN Chair Deadlock Persists

PAS veteran leader Datuk Hashim Jasin speaking at a party event, where he urged decisive action amid ongoing leadership deadlock within Perikatan Nasional.

KUALA LUMPUR : PAS veteran leader Datuk Hashim Jasin has suggested that the party should consider contesting the 16th General Election (GE16) on its own if the ongoing deadlock over the Perikatan Nasional (PN) chairmanship remains unresolved.

Hashim said prolonged disagreements over leadership positions risk weakening the coalition and could distract from efforts to prepare for the next general election. He stressed that PAS must prioritise political stability, organisational strength and voter confidence.

“If the leadership issue continues without resolution, PAS should seriously consider going solo. We cannot allow internal disputes to undermine our readiness and credibility,” he said.

He added that PAS has a strong grassroots network, disciplined party machinery and a clear ideological direction, which would allow it to compete independently if necessary. According to Hashim, clarity in leadership and direction is essential to mobilise supporters and strengthen campaign strategies.

Hashim also warned that prolonged uncertainty within PN could confuse voters and erode public trust in the opposition bloc. He said political alliances must be based on mutual respect, shared objectives and firm leadership structures.

While acknowledging the importance of cooperation among opposition parties, Hashim said such partnerships must not come at the expense of stability and internal cohesion. He urged PN leaders to resolve the chairmanship issue swiftly to avoid further damage to the coalition’s image.

The leadership impasse follows internal disagreements over proposals to restructure PN’s top leadership, including suggestions to abolish the chairman’s post and replace it with alternative governance mechanisms.

Political analysts say Hashim’s remarks reflect growing frustration within PAS over the lack of progress in resolving the leadership question and signal increasing pressure on PN leaders to reach a consensus.

They added that PAS contesting GE16 independently could significantly reshape the political landscape, potentially altering electoral dynamics in several key states.