Hudud issue has shaken Pakatan, admits PAS MP
The Kelantan PAS government's plan to implement hudud in the state had shaken the Pakatan Rakyat coalition, said PAS National Unity Committee chairperson Mujahid Rawa.
The Kelantan PAS government's plan to implement hudud in the state had shaken the Pakatan Rakyat coalition, said PAS National Unity Committee chairperson Mujahid Rawa.
He said although the issue was considered a "state issue", it had affected Pakatan especially in West Malaysia, since hudud, the Islamic criminal law, had never been discussed during the formation of the coalition in 2008.
Hudud also had never been part of the agenda when PAS, PKR and DAP signed the common policy framework, nor was it included in the 'Buku Jingga', a long-term administration masterplan of the coalition.
"I also have to be honest and admit that in reality, the public perceive that Pakatan is unable to settle the differences. The public have no confidence that we can reach mutual understanding on hudud."
Mujahid said this as a speaker at a forum on 'Emerging Perspective on Hudud in Malaysia', organised by the Asian Strategy and Leadership Institute (ASLI) yesterday.
Thus, Mujahid who is also Parit Buntar member of parliament (MP), said Pakatan must find a solution to regain the people's confidence.
"Yes, PAS is very committed to implementing hudud, but we also respect the democratic process. We practise mature politics, that is why we open the issue to discussion and listen to the critics," he said.
Meanwhile, PAS Sepang MP Mohamed Hanipa Maidin ( right ) said hudud would not be implemented in Malaysia until the people gave their blessings and agreed that the Islamic law could be part of their life.
A lawyer, Hanifa agreed that people could perceive hudud as against the constitution since it was normal to have a different opinion, but the differences must be channelled through the right medium and let the court decide.
"Our friend, DAP also says no to hudud, and it is understandable. It must be strange if they suddenly agree with us, but those who are not of the same view on hudud, please respect us and come forward for discussion," he said.
Umno Youth exco member Fathul Bari Mat Jahaya suggested that non-Muslims be part of the Technical Committee on hudud, so that they would receive clear explanation on hudud and given space to voice their fear over its proposed implementation.
- Bernama
