PAS information chief Dr Haron Din, recently appointed the party's deputy spiritual leader, is expected to vacate his current post, thereby paving the way for change of key office-bearers.

Sources close to the top leadership claimed that Haron has expressed a wish to drop the information chief's post because the duties of the deputy mursyidul am (spiritual leader) would demand most of his time.

"He is a very responsible leader and would not want to neglect his responsibilities. He is concerned that he will not be able to carry the burden of two important posts," said one source.

Party vice-president Mustafa Ali confirmed that Haron has stated his intention to vacate his current post.

"But the party will make the final decision. Leaders have yet to discuss the matter in depth. We will do so soon," he said when contacted.

After Haron's appointment at PAS muktamar (general assembly) last month, his aide Mohd Rashidi Hassan had told journalists that Haron would leave the decision to the party.

Supporters of the former academician and popular faith-healer have since advised him to retain the information chief's post until the party elections next year.

"If he vacates it now, there could be a perception at the grassroots that he is not ready to hold more than one post. This would affect his chances in being nominated for more important posts," said a supporter who requested anonymity.

"Holding more than one party post is nothing new. Look at (spiritual leader) ustaz Nik Abdul Aziz (Nik Mat). He is also the Kelantan chief. His former deputy ustaz Idris Omar, was also the party commissioner in Pahang. There's nothing wrong with it (holding two posts)."

Candidates for posts

Another source disclosed that party leaders have been considering several candidates as the new information chief, with the front-runners being current secretary-general Nasharuddin Mat Isa and former Youth chief Mahfuz Omar.

"From discussions to date, Nasharuddin is the likely choice. There is nothing wrong with Mahfuz, but Nasharuddin is well known for his good PR (public relations) skills. He is fluent in several languages including English. There is no doubt that he will excel as information chief," the source said.

He pointed out that a new secretary-general would then have to be appointed, but said "PAS should not be afraid of a major revamp if this strengthens the party".

"Delegates have already unanimously decided that it must bring in changes if it wants to move ahead."

He said that one name being bandied about as replacement for Nasharuddin is central committee member and Tumpat MP Kamaruddin Jaafar or KJ, as he is popularly known.

Another proposal relayed to party leaders is to make Kamaruddin the chairperson of party organ Harakah's board of directors, to replace Mustafa Ali.

"Following complaints against Harakah, Mustafa had stated his willingness to step down as chairperson. KJ is the best person to head Harakah because he can use his business acumen to boost sales," he said.