Pas criticises RoS over PN deregistration before court hearing

KOTA BARU: Pas has expressed disappointment over the Registrar of Societies' (RoS) decision to cancel Perikatan Nasional's registration two days before the High Court hears its legal challenge against the restrictions.

Pas deputy president Datuk Seri Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man said the timing of the decision raised questions, particularly with the hearing on PN's application for a stay of the suspension order scheduled for Oct 22.

He claimed that the move reflected the Madani government's fear of PN, especially ahead of the Melaka election and the next general election.

"Pas is disappointed by the RoS's action, considering that only two days remain before the court hears the judicial review concerning the restrictions imposed by the RoS.

"This clearly reflects the Madani government's fear of PN, particularly in facing the Melaka election and the next general election," said the Kubang Kerian member of parliament.

Tuan Ibrahim who is also PN deputy chairman said Pas and its coalition partners would convene an emergency meeting in the near future to discuss the implications of the decision and determine their next course of action.

"The matter required serious consideration as PN comprised several component parties that were part of state governments.

"The issue must be viewed comprehensively as it could have far-reaching implications for any political coalition in the future," he said.

It was reported that RoS has confirmed it cancelled Perikatan Nasional's registration, saying the coalition's explanation failed to address the grounds for cancellation outlined in an earlier notice.

RoS said the decision was made under subparagraph 13(1)(c)(iv) of the Societies Act 1966 (Act 832), after reviewing the documents and representations submitted by PN on Oct 12.

The development comes as political parties prepare for the Melaka election, with polling scheduled for Nov 14.