Can PAS loyalists shield Perikatan Nasional from account freeze impact?

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PAS Loyalists Likely to Mitigate Impact of Bersatu Account Freeze on Perikatan Nasional

Political analysts suggest that the strong religious and ideological loyalty of PAS supporters will likely counteract any campaigning disadvantages Perikatan Nasional (PN) may face due to the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) freezing Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia's accounts. While the suspension of Bersatu's accounts is anticipated to hinder PN's ability to sustain its momentum from the 15th general election (GE15), the unwavering support base of PAS is seen as a significant mitigating factor.
Ideological Foundation Sustains Support

The core of PN's resilience in the face of financial constraints is believed to stem from the deep-seated ideological commitments of PAS supporters. This unwavering allegiance means that even with limitations on campaign machinery, the fundamental voter base is expected to remain steadfast. This contrasts with potential reliance on more fluid voter segments, suggesting that the impact on PN's core support will be minimal.
GE15 Momentum and "Green Wave" Phenomenon

PN's notable performance in GE15, where it secured the second-highest number of votes, is thought to have been fueled by significant campaign spending by Bersatu at the time. This electoral success was further amplified by subsequent by-election victories, giving rise to the "green wave" phenomenon, a direct reference to PAS's signature colour. The freezing of Bersatu's accounts is expected to directly curtail PN's campaign machinery, as a substantial portion of the coalition's funds were reportedly held in the Bersatu central account.
Social Media Campaign Limitations and Potential Sympathy

Bersatu had previously compensated for a perceived lack of grassroots presence in GE15 through a highly effective social media campaign, particularly on platforms like TikTok. Without access to Bersatu's funds, further extensive social media campaigning by PN for the upcoming six state elections is deemed unlikely. However, analysts also posit that the MACC's action could generate sympathy for the PN coalition if supporters perceive the investigation as politically motivated, a sentiment echoed by Bersatu secretary-general Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainuddin who labelled the move "political persecution."
MACC Investigation and Allegations

The MACC confirmed that two Bersatu accounts were frozen as part of investigations conducted under the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001. PN chairman Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin maintained that Bersatu's accounts had undergone previous audits and expressed concern that the freeze would impede his coalition's prospects in the upcoming state elections. The investigations are reportedly examining alleged irregularities in the utilisation of RM600 billion in public funds allocated for the Covid-19 pandemic during Muhyiddin's tenure as prime minister. News reports have also linked the MACC's action to allegations that Bersatu received over RM300 million in donations from approximately 10 contractors who had secured public projects while the party was in government.

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Can PAS loyalists shield Perikatan Nasional from account freeze impact?

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