The perils of Umno men joining PAS — The Malaysian Insider

Election 2013 will be the tightest race in recent Malaysian history and every party is looking for an advantage over their foe. PAS is no exception and has now taken in several Umno men to boost its ranks and profile in the May 5 polls.

Is that wise?

Corporate player Datuk Seri Abdul Rahman Maidin is now PAS’s candidate for the Tasik Gelugor federal seat in Penang. He was a known associate of Tun Daim Zainuddin and even helmed the Umno-linked MRCB between 1999 and 2002.

Then there is mounting speculation that former Selangor Mentri Besar Tan Sri Muhammad Muhammad Taib will join PAS this week to give it a psychological edge over Umno.

Muhammad is a big catch, of course. But he comes with baggage too, including the one where RM3.8 million was found on him in Australia, forcing him to resign as mentri besar in 1997.

The man known as Mat Tyson might not be a candidate but what advantage does he and Rahman give to PAS in the long run? Perhaps they have repented and want to contribute to society through PAS but at what cost?

After all, the Islamist party has been grooming a younger set of leaders and they should be given a chance to contest the polls as they come without baggage.

So, why is PAS now going the route of having brand-name recognition to win the general election? To ensure it can keep up with its allies in Pakatan Rakyat?

Will it work? Or will such men with such past sink PAS’s efforts in this general election.

These are the perils that PAS must know if it continues picking up former Umno men.