PN Chairman Need Not Be Among Party Presidents, Says Takiyuddin

PAS secretary-general Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan says Perikatan Nasional is open to appointing a chairman who is not necessarily a party president, as leadership restructuring talks continue.

KUALA LUMPUR: Perikatan Nasional (PN) does not necessarily need to appoint its chairman from among the presidents of its component parties, according to PAS secretary-general Datuk Seri Takiyuddin Hassan, amid ongoing discussions on restructuring the coalition’s leadership.

Takiyuddin said PN remains flexible in determining its leadership framework, stressing that what matters most is the ability of the chosen leader to strengthen unity, stability, and effectiveness within the coalition.

He explained that PN’s constitution does not strictly require the chairman to be a party president, allowing room for alternative arrangements that could better reflect consensus and strategic considerations among its member parties.

His remarks come as political attention remains focused on PN’s leadership direction following Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin’s decision to step down as chairman, triggering speculation over PAS potentially assuming a more dominant role in the coalition.

Takiyuddin said ongoing discussions among PN’s component parties are being conducted in a spirit of cooperation and mutual respect, with the aim of ensuring long-term cohesion and political strength.

He added that any final decision would be made collectively and announced through official channels once consensus is reached.

Political observers view the statement as a signal that PN is exploring broader leadership options, including the possibility of a compromise candidate or a new structural arrangement, to prevent internal tensions and preserve coalition unity.

The developments are seen as part of PN’s broader strategy to consolidate its position ahead of upcoming state elections and preparations for the 16th General Election (GE16).