PPBM-PAS talks hit stalemate, says Guan Eng

DAP secretary-general Lim Guan Eng says there are internal problems in PAS which has scuppered the talks.

(FMT) – The talks between Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (PPBM) and PAS appear to have hit a stalemate and this could be because of disagreements in the Islamist party’s top leadership, said Lim Guan Eng.

Lim, who is the DAP secretary-general, said PPBM deputy president Mukhriz Mahathir’s explanation on the talks indicated a likely stalemate.

“He (Mukhriz) explained to me about what happened, but when I saw him, he seemed a bit confused about PAS’ stand on things,” Lim told reporters during a visit to Kuantan Road here today.

Lim said Mukhriz’s confusion is understandable, as it was likely caused by disagreement between PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang and his deputy Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man.

“When I read the BN newspapers today, I understand the situation better. It appears the president and his deputy have clashed on the their thoughts on the matter.

“But I am sure he (Mukhriz) will continue with his discussions,” Lim said.

Asked if the PPBM-PAS talks would work out, he said: “Best you ask PPBM on this.”

He added that DAP’s stand on PAS remains the same – there was no space to work with the Islamic party.

“We have given our views as a member of Pakatan Harapan (on PAS cooperation). We were not told about it before, but only read about the talks in newspapers,” he said, adding that PPBM and Pakatan Harapan would hold talks on Feb 7 to clear the air on the matter.