IF rumours that PAS president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang may be stepping down are true, the question would be who is be the best successor.
The frontrunner would be Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man - the party's number two, whom insiders believe would be the best suited.
"The ulama faction is working hard to ensure the transition of power proceeds smoothly without any problems in the party if Hadi steps down," revealed a party source.
The source said if it is true that Hadi was stepping down, he would most likely be given the role of Pas Mursyidul (spiritual leader) like the late Tan Sri Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat.
"However, the final decision would be left to the delegates, though most delegates would prefer the top two positions not be contested,".
If Tuan Ibrahim becomes the new president of the Islamic party, it would be likely that current vice-president, Datuk Mohd Amar Nik Abdullah moves to become the number two.
"This will of course trigger a contest for the vice-presidencies, which is normal in most parties," added the source.
He revealed that the support for Hadi, the Marang MP remains divided - with some members wanting him to stay and others of the opinion that he should make way for younger blood.
Hadi has been the PAS president since 2002.
There have also been questions whether the party's leadership must remain in the hands of the ulama or should a professional figure like vice-president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar also be considered for the top post.
It was earlier reported that Hadi, 78, expressed this desire to step down during a meeting with the top PAS leadership at a retreat held in Terengganu. PAS elections are expected to take place this September.
Hadi has gone through several party elections and five general elections as the party president.
"We heard that the Ulama Council wouldnpersuade Tuan Ibrahim to take over if Hadi steps down as this would ensure a smooth transition without creating any ripples in the party.
"There has also been talk that the party establish a mechanism to establish the qualifications of those vying for the top two positions, but this has not been finalised," revealed another source.
According to the source this would ensure the quality of leadership.
He also revealed that while efforts would be to persuade Tuan Ibrahim to take over, he is likely to be 'a little reluctant' as Hadi has set high standards which he is afraid he will not be able to fill.
"If it is true that Hadi is planning to step down, the only reason could be due to his health issues," said the source.
Hadi was in June 2023 admitted to Putrajaya Hospital after experiencing shortness of breath, before being transferred to the National Heart Institute for further treatment.
"Hadi feels his health is good, but doctors have advised him to reduce outdoor activities and avoid crowded places,".
The source also said that those wishing to contest for central committee posts at the party elections in September must secure a set number of nominations from the divisions.
“For PAS, the top two posts must be occupied by ulama as they are steeped in knowledge about Islam,” added the source.
Reports baseless, says Tuan Ibrahim
Meanwhile, in latest reports, Tuan Ibrahim dismissed all talk of Hadi stepping down as baseless and speculative.
He said any such report was a fabrication that misrepresented internal party discussions.
“The recent party meetings were focused on preparations for by-elections and the next general election, not on internal leadership changes.
"There was no discussion on party positions. We leave it entirely to the delegates to determine party leadership," said the Kubang Kerian member of Parliament. - June 7, 2025
