PETALING JAYA: Different political considerations appear to be influencing how Umno’s top leaders approach ongoing discussions with PAS, according to a political analyst.
Bait Al Amanah research fellow Syaza Shukri said Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi and deputy president Mohamad Hasan could have different priorities when it comes to potential cooperation with PAS.
She said Zahid’s approach appeared to be more pragmatic, with the Umno president seeking to keep the party’s political options open amid changing political dynamics.
Mohamad, meanwhile, was seen as placing greater emphasis on reciprocity and ensuring Umno’s interests were protected in any potential cooperation.
Syaza said the differing approaches did not necessarily indicate a disagreement within Umno, but reflected the different political responsibilities and considerations faced by the party’s two top leaders.
Talks between Umno and PAS have gained attention as political parties assess possible cooperation ahead of the next general election and state-level political developments.
The discussions come amid continued debate within the Malay-based parties over the possibility of greater cooperation and the terms that would govern any future political arrangement.
-FMT
