Bersatu denies talks to join Pakatan, says rumours do not make sense

KUALA LUMPUR, May 28 — Tun Faisal Ismail Aziz has insisted that any cooperation between Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia (Bersatu) and Pakatan Harapan (PH) has never been discussed at any party platform or meeting.

On that basis, the Bersatu information chief said claims that the party would join PH through the role allegedly played by the party’s secretary-general, Datuk Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali, were completely untrue.

He also described such cooperation as illogical, noting that Bersatu was among the parties that helped bring down the PH government after the 14th general election.

“Not true. It has never been discussed in the Political Bureau, the Supreme Leadership Council, or in any unofficial discussions within the party.

“If there were any efforts in that direction, there would surely be signs or indications of movements or operations towards it. For example, like what happened with the SD (statutory declaration) movement by followers of Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainudin.

“So far, there have been no signs pointing in that direction. It would be illogical,” he said in a statement today.

Previously, rumours had surfaced that Bersatu could return to PH following tensions in the party’s relationship with PAS.

Meanwhile, DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke had earlier reminded PH to be cautious about cooperating with any party, particularly Bersatu and PAS.

Loke was reported as saying that PH had previously endured bitter experiences while working with both parties.

At the same time, Tun Faisal said Bersatu was not moving towards taking the same approach as Umno, which is currently cooperating with PH.

He also defended Azmin, saying the former Selangor menteri besar had no role in Bersatu’s recent disciplinary measures, as such matters fell under the jurisdiction of the party’s disciplinary board.

“The disciplinary board is carrying out its duties as provided under the Bersatu constitution to act against those who violate the party constitution and discipline, betray the party, hold illegal and unauthorised negotiations with outside parties, and commit other disciplinary offences.

“Not everyone was sacked. Some were suspended while others were given warnings. It has nothing to do with Mohamed Azmin. He did not violate the party constitution or the party’s code of ethics and conduct,” he said.