SEREMBAN: Negri Sembilan Bersatu chief, Mohamad Hanifah Abu Baker has backed Pas president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang for the vacant Perikatan Nasional chairman’s post.
Hanifah said Hadi, who is PN deputy chairman and Marang member of parliament, possessed the necessary leadership qualities to lead the coalition.
“In this challenging and uncertain political landscape, PN needs a chairman with strong moral authority, extensive political experience, and the ability to unite component parties effectively.
“Hadi fulfils all these requirements,” he said in a statement today.
On Tuesday, Muhyiddin resigned as PN chairman amid tensions between Bersatu and Pas over the Perlis political crisis, which saw Bersatu take over the leadership of the state government from Pas.
The former prime minister’s resignation as PN chief triggered the resignation of PN secretary-general Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali and several state chiefs from Bersatu.
Hanifah said the PN chairmanship should be held by a component party president with the highest mandate within their respective party structure.
“Appointing someone other than the president would not only create confusion on leadership authority but also risk weakening administration, coordination, and strategic decision-making.
“The PN chairman must be a figure accepted across racial and social boundaries to ensure the coalition remains inclusive, stable, and trusted by the people,” he said.
Hanifah said Hadi’s standing as a respected national figure made him a vital asset to the coalition’s credibility.
“Leadership ability should be judged on wisdom, experience, and strategic decision-making.”
“Currently, only two figures possess the legitimacy and experience to lead this coalition, Muhyiddin and Abdul Hadi,” he said.
He added that Hadi was the most rational choice to ensure continuity and stability within PN.
Kelantan Bersatu previously indicated that Hadi might be appointed to the top post following Muhyiddin‘s departure.
© New Straits Times Press (M) Bhd
