Transition talk infringes Agong's authority - PAS

PAS has taken the position that discussions of Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad handing over the reins to Anwar Ibrahim infringes on the authority of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.

In a statement today, PAS secretary-general Takiyuddin Hassan (above) said the appointment of the prime minister was at the sole discretion of the Agong, as stipulated under Article 40 (2) and 43 (2)(a) of the Federal Constitution.

According to Takiyuddin, this meant that the Agong's right to choose a prime minister was absolute.

Ironically, in recent weeks, PAS had pledged to back Mahathir to serve out a full term.

Takiyuddin's statement comes at a time when there was heated speculation regarding efforts to stymie the transition plan that was agreed by Pakatan Harapan in January 2018.

Anwar has publicly stated that such a plot exists, while Mahathir has repeated his pledge to step down sometime after Malaysia hosts the Asia-Pacific Economic Summit in November.

The Pakatan Harapan leadership council is expected to discuss the transition when it meets on Feb 21.

Meanwhile, Takiyuddin said PAS’ pledge to move a motion of confidence for Mahathir to serve out a full term may be unconventional, but it was definitely legitimate.

"PAS is of the view that when a prime minister's position is being challenged, only a motion of confidence (in Parliament) or statutory declarations (to pledge support) outside of Parliament can determine if the prime minister still has majority support," said Takiyuddin, who is the Kota Bharu MP.