KUALA LUMPUR – PAS President, Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang, 78, is said to have hinted that he might relinquish his position due to health reasons.
It is understood that Hadi, who is also the Member of Parliament for Marang, expressed this intention during a PAS’s top leadership meeting at a retreat held in Terengganu last week, according to Sinar Harian.
A source revealed that this has opened up discussions among the Dewan Ulama (Council of Religious Scholars), who are reportedly trying to persuade his deputy, Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man, to take over the position.
“This matter was raised by Hadi himself during the retreat last weekend, where he hinted that he was not well,” the portal reported.
“So, he mentioned the possibility of stepping down. That’s what sparked the current discussions,” the source said.
Recently, a member of the PAS Central Dewan Ulama, Mokhtar Senik, suggested that PAS should create a mechanism to control the competition for the two highest positions, namely president and deputy president.
According to Mokhtar, those who wish to contest for either of these positions should pass a screening by the party’s Shura Council.
Vice President, Datuk Mohd Ahmad Nik Abdullah, also said that if the president decides to step down, the position should be filled by his deputy.
However, questions arise as to whether Tuan Ibrahim is willing to take over the party’s top post.
“Hadi has set a high benchmark. Perhaps that’s why (Tuan Ibrahim is somewhat reluctant),” added the source.
It is understood that Hadi experienced health complications in June 2023 and was admitted to Putrajaya Hospital after experiencing shortness of breath, before being transferred to the National Heart Institute for further treatment.
Hadi has been president of PAS since being selected as acting president in 2003, before being confirmed in the role at the party congress in 2005. The PAS elections are expected to take place this September.
He has navigated several party elections and five general elections as president of PAS. – June 6, 2025