PAS: We’d rather lose than go back on our agenda

KOTA BARU: PAS claims that it is willing to lose in the next general election rather than backtrack on its effort to set up an Islamic political system.

PAS deputy president Datuk Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man claimed that their struggle did not solely hinge on attaining power.

He said PAS had consistently condemned falsehood, tyranny and administrative irregularities since its inception.

He also dismissed as false claims that PAS was now “blinded” by offers of material wealth. “We are not willing to compromise on our principles,” he said from Medina.

Many people did not understand why PAS was wasting “golden opportunities” by turning down offers to forge ties with parties that could help increase its chances of securing greater victory, he added.

“They do not understand why PAS is willing to take the risk of losing for the sake of defending party policies,” Tuan Ibrahim said.

He said PAS was prepared to forge ties with parties that accepted its Islamic policies as it continued to find ways to promote an Islamicbased administrative system.

“We are weary of parties that want to be with us only when needed, and attack us after that,” he said.

Despite being “bullied”, PAS would not regret decisions made in the past to forge alliance with various parties, Tuan Ibrahim said.

“This is because we make decisions after discussions, and with the consent of muktamar and guidance of the Syura Council.

“Throughout our struggle, PAS has lost friends, political ally, party premises and various assets that were previously endowed by members and supporters.

“We feel sad losing the assets, as they were amassed through donations from even the poor.”

PAS would continue educating the public on the Islamic politics that differed greatly from the Western political system.

He said Islamic politics was based on changing towards betterment, appreciating common values and respecting differences.