PAS capitalising on Dr M-PM spat, says Umno leader

Malaysiakini – 1/7/2006
Umno will not sit back and allow PAS to use the row between former premier Dr Mahathir Mohamad and the current administration to serve its interests. 

Deputy Information Minister and Umno supreme council member Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said there were PAS leaders who were trying to capitalise on this issue. 

According to him, they are hoping that the rift would lead to a break-up in Umno. 

“Umno is certain that the issue (the differences between Mahathir and successor Abdullah Ahmad Badawi) would be resolved in a wise manner,” he was quoted as saying by Bernama. 

Several top PAS leaders, such as vice-president Husam Musa and Youth chief Salahuddin Ayub, had recently met Mahathir during a public forum in Kuala Lumpur.
Explain the issue

Mahathir had launched a series of attacks against his successor over certain decisions made by the current administration, namely the scrapping of the half-bridge project, the management of Proton and the sale of Italian motorcycle manufacturer MV Augusta to a euro 2 company.  While claiming it was nothing personal, Mahathir had on one occasion wondered aloud if he made the wrong choice in naming Abdullah as his successor. 

The former premier had also come under intense criticism from present and past leaders over his scathing remarks. 

The latest development is that a mediator might be roped in to help to mend the ties between the former and present prime ministers. 

Meanwhile, Ahmad Zahid said Umno leaders in the state and divisional levels must go to the ground to explain the real situation to the people. 

“Umno members should not be confused further by the various remarks by the opposition (regarding this issue),” he added. Ahmad Zahid also noted that in Islam, misunderstandings are permitted but there must be limits and civility so that they do not cause fissures.
Source: www.malaysiakini.com