PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang’s  proposal of a “Muslim-only-cabinet” seems to be another example of extreme political rhetoric to disengage with non-Muslims in the country.

As everybody knows, it has nothing do with the religion of Islam. It has all to do with the extreme politics of Hadi to ensure that PAS is not reduced to be a mere appendage to the racial politics of Umno.

His remark about only Muslims should be allowed in the cabinet seems to reflect the dilemma the party is in under his leadership. His latest remark, to be read with other remarks, indicate the party is at pains to chart its own political course in the country. Something independent of Umno.

Hadi knows that PAS’  “dedak” association with Umno might cost his party crucial votes in the next general election. The failure of PAS to take on the corruption and abuse of power by Barisan Nasional has caused considerable uneasiness within the party’s ranks.

Hadi, by taking an extreme stand on matters of decision-making and governance, wants to present an alternative model to Muslims in Malaysia. A model in which non-Muslims have no role.

So, what Hadi is doing is not unusual, especially when he realises that his party is going nowhere with Umno.  Until the next general election, Hadi will be engaging in the most extreme sectarian politics to ensure that PAS is in the mainstream of the political contest.

This is the dilemma of many political parties that take on very radical positions at a time when their support base is dwindling.

Hadi is not stupid. He knows that PAS’ association with Umno might not be in the interest of the former for a long period. If there is an opportunity, he must outshine Umno, especially in the realm of Islam. This is the weakest link of Umno.

While Pakatan Harapan might not welcome PAS, Hadi is in a dilemma to address the rumblings within PAS, especially among members who think partnership in the alternative coalition might be possible.

Hadi might have his reasons for accommodation with Umno, but then, he also realises that many in PAS, especially the grassroots members who have long been socialised into thinking that “Umno is their enemy”, are not comfortable with this partnership.

Politics in PAS under Hadi is simply not about strengthening bonds with Umno.

Far from it. It is also preparing PAS for a future role in the country with or without Umno. – December 26, 2017.

* Ramasamy Palanisamy reads The Malaysian Insight.

* This is the opinion of the writer or publication and does not necessarily represent the views of The Malaysian Insight. Article may be edited for brevity and clarity.