While Umno may be in two minds over the continued prominence of Datuk Seri Najib Razak, PAS said it has no issues if the former premier wishes to aid its campaign for the Seri Setia by-election.
Although Najib is expected to either sit out or be given a reduced role in future polls contested by Umno, PAS president Datuk Seri Abdul Hadi Awang said his party would welcome Najib if he wishes to stump for the Islamist party.
“We do not close our doors to any, it is up to their personal views whether it is necessary to come or not,” he was quoted as saying by Sinar Harian.
The Barisan Nasional Backbenchers’ website also categorised Hadi as openly lauding Najib’s potential participation in the PAS campaign for Seri Setia.
PAS’ attitude stands in contrast to that of a growing section in Umno who want Najib to distance himself from the party over concerns that his criminal charges will further hurt the party’s reputation following its disastrous general election defeat.
PAS announced last night that its candidate for the Seri Setia by-election will be former Selangor state executive councillor Dr Halimah Ali.
Meanwhile, PAS has told its members in Balakong to vote for the MCA candidate in the state seat by-election.
Hadi said the call is made on the basis of solidarity as the Opposition.
“Insha Allah (God willing), as we are together in the spirit of the Opposition,” he told reporters when answering a question on whether PAS will order its members to vote for the MCA candidate in the by-election…
Both the Seri Setia and Balakong polls will be held on September 8.