PAS has elected not to contest in the Rantau by-election once more, having opted out of contesting the Negeri Sembilan state seat in the 14th general election.
PAS deputy president Tuan Ibrahim Tuan Man, however, denied the decision was made in order to give way to Umno incumbent Mohamad Hasan to defend the seat.
"No, we had a meeting and we decided not to field any candidate.
"Even in GE14, PAS did not field any candidate there and this time we are standing by that decision.
"When we did not field any candidate then, it was not because of Mohamad but rather after taking into account the strength of the party's election machinery, and the preparations (needed), we gave way to Mohamad," he said when contacted by Malaysiakini.
Tuan Ibrahim, who is Kubang Kerian MP, added that PAS is, however, willing to aid any opposition candidate contesting in the by-election.
"PAS is ready to help any (opposition) candidate. We will see who is nominated.
“We support any opposition bloc and will help them."
The Election Court in Seremban yesterday ruled the Rantau state seat vacant and ordered a fresh contest following a challenge by PKR's Dr S Streram.
Mohamad (photo), who is Umno deputy president and former Negeri Sembilan menteri besar, retained the seat uncontested in the May polls after Streram has been prohibited from submitting his nomination papers on April 28 on the grounds that he did not have an Election Commission (EC) pass with him.
Justice Azimah Omar stated that there was no written law or requirement for a candidate, his seconder or proposer to have passes to enter the nomination centre and as such, (the prohibition) amounted to discrimination against Streram.
Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi announced yesterday that Mohamad will be defending the seat. - Mkini
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