PN deregistration clears path for PAS to align with UMNO ahead of GE16
The Registrar of Societies deregistered PN, enabling PAS to concentrate on a partnership with UMNO as the next general election looms.
The Registrar of Societies (RoS) officially deregistered the Perikatan Nasional (PN) coalition after finding its explanation insufficient to a previous notice, acting on a complaint from Bersatu that it was barred from attending, speaking and voting at a PN Supreme Council meeting on July 16. As a result, PN cannot use its emblem in the forthcoming Melaka elections, although its member parties may contest under separate symbols.
PAS’s spiritual leader said the deregistration will not damage PAS but will chiefly impact Bersatu, allowing PAS to concentrate on a long-awaited cooperation with UMNO. He claimed a PAS-UMno alliance would provide a major advantage in the 16th general election and make it easier for PAS to win. Bersatu described the move as proof of PAS’s failure to manage the coalition democratically and transparently, while PAS labeled it an attempt to pre-empt the court and weaken the opposition ahead of the Melaka vote. A High Court hearing on PN’s application to quash a show-cause notice is scheduled for today.
Why it matters
The deregistration reshapes opposition dynamics in Malaysia ahead of crucial elections.
How the sides frame it
LOW AGREEMENTCenter coverage frames the deregistration as clearing the way for a strategic PAS-UMNO alliance, while right-leaning coverage portrays it as opening a direct rivalry between PAS and Bersatu.
CENTER
Deregistration is presented as an opportunity for PAS to align with UMNO and strengthen its election prospects.
RIGHT
Deregistration is portrayed as paving the way for an open clash between PAS and Bersatu, highlighting a competitive rivalry.
The right emphasises
- The dissolution clears the way for a potential showdown between PAS and Bersatu.
- PAS has publicly ruled out any partnership with Bersatu, leaving Bersatu vulnerable.
- Analysts warn PAS will need coalition partners to avoid a fragmented Malay electorate.
In this story
Related stories
13 in this thread