DR Mahathir Mohamad is set to usurp leadership powers from Muhyiddin Yassin in Perikatan Nasional (PN), Umno veteran Salleh Said Keruak said.

He said the plan was jointly mooted by PAS president Abdul Hadi Awang and Dr Mahathir as the latter is seen to be “far more impressive” than the current PN chairman, New Straits Times reported today.

Dr Mahathir was recently appointed to be the unofficial adviser to the four states under PN control.

Salleh said Hadi and PAS wanted to work with Dr Mahathir to ensure they continue to get Malay support. 

“This move surprised many political quarters because no one expected Hadi to have such political foresight.

“It is therefore apparent that Hadi would like to keep the momentum of the green wave going and continue to reap its gains.

“He is determined to keep what PAS had gained during the recent general election and state polls,” Salleh posted on Facebook.

He also said for Dr Mahathir, being in PN would allow him to make a comeback.

“Since the four states are basically Malay states, this may also be his strategy to consolidate the support of the Malays population.

“Dr Mahathir wants the Malay support very badly to materialise his comeback, that’s why he is working with PAS.

“PAS in turn wants to make use of Dr Mahathir’s image to attract moderate Malays as well as non-Malays,” he said. – September 22, 2023.