PETALING JAYA: For the first time since its inception more than 60 years ago, PAS is allowing candidates vying for positions in the party to campaign openly.
Party election committee chairman Asmuni Awi said candidates could promote themselves but not attack their opponents.
“We forbid statements, videos, caricatures and use of various other mediums and tools to belittle or slander other candidates.
“Those resorting to personal attacks risk disciplinary action,” he said.
Asmuni was commenting on the do’s and don’ts in the run-up to the central party polls on Nov 22, a day before the PAS Youth, Muslimat and Ulama elections.
He said the green light to campaign should not be abused to smear other candidates.
“We do not tolerate such negative culture,” he added.
Certain quarters who had started their campaigns via social media, including Facebook, had attacked some personalities who they viewed as “parasites” in PAS.
Sources said although PAS had only this year allowed open campaigning, certain candidates had enjoyed external sponsorship to fund their nationwide campaigns in the last two party elections in 2009 and 2011.
Observers said the intense campaigning was aimed at reducing ulama dominance in the central leadership.
Asmuni said aspiring candidates from the wings must submit their nomination forms by midnight on Oct 20, and those going for seats in the central committee by midnight on Oct 31.
The forms are available from the 188 PAS divisions, 173 Youth divisions and 167 Muslimat aside from state Ulama offices nationwide.
After nominations are accepted, candidates should affirm their candidacy by 5pm on Nov 8, said Asmuni.
Author/autor: Sira Habibu
Source/fuente:http://www.thestar.com.my/News/Nation/2013/10/04/PAS-allows-candidates-t...
