‘Does PAS have no more leaders?’ Guan Eng questions Samsuri’s ‘two hats’ as opposition leader and MB

KUALA LUMPUR, May 17 —DAP advisor Lim Guan Eng has questioned the depth of leadership within PAS following the appointment of Terengganu Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar as the new opposition leader.

In a statement released today, the Bagan MP asked if the Islamist party is facing a talent vacuum, forcing Ahmad Samsuri to juggle two high-pressure roles simultaneously.

“Does PAS have no capable leader that it has to appoint Ahmad to bear two responsibilities by wearing ‘two hats’?” Lim asked, noting that both positions demand full focus and dedication.

Lim expressed scepticism over Ahmad Samsuri’s ability to manage his duties effectively, citing the significant geographical distance between the administrative hub of Kuala Lumpur and the Terengganu state capital, Kuala Terengganu.

Lim also highlighted Ahmad Samsuri’s current parliamentary attendance record as the MP for Kemaman to support his concerns.

Quoting data from the MyParliament portal, Lim pointed out that the MB has attended only 158 out of 248 sitting days, an attendance rate of 63.7 per cent.

“The portal’s assessment of his attendance is ‘needs improvement.’ How can Ahmad carry out his duties as opposition leader with an attendance of only 63.7 per cent?” Lim questioned.

He argued that if Ahmad Samsuri commits to being present for every parliamentary sitting to fulfil his new role, his responsibilities as menteri besar would inevitably suffer due to his absence from Terengganu.

“It is unrealistic and impractical to wear both hats. In the end, it is the people of Terengganu and the voters who support Perikatan Nasional (PN) who will suffer, as they will not benefit from his full attention,” Lim added.