Why are Bersatu and PAS conflicting over their main enemy?

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Bersatu and PAS Differ on Main Electoral Adversary Amidst Coalition Dynamics

Bersatu and PAS are experiencing internal conflict regarding their primary electoral adversaries, a situation that has raised questions about the coherence and direction of the Perikatan Nasional (PN) coalition. This divergence is particularly evident in their public declarations, with PAS identifying Pakatan Harapan (PH) as its chief opponent, while Bersatu has designated the Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition, led by Umno, as its main enemy for the upcoming 15th general election. This discrepancy has led to confusion among voters and has been highlighted as a significant point of contention within the coalition.
Conflicting Declarations of Political Opposition

The differing stances on who constitutes the main enemy were publicly articulated by key figures within both parties. PAS has consistently declared Pakatan Harapan (PH) as its staunch opponent. In contrast, Bersatu president Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin has explicitly stated that PN must treat the Umno-led Barisan Nasional (BN) coalition as the "main enemy" in the forthcoming general election. These opposing views create a complex political landscape where coalition partners are publicly identifying different primary adversaries.
Underlying Tensions and Historical Baggage

The animosity between Bersatu and Umno, two parties that now form part of an uneasy government at both federal and state levels, has been openly acknowledged. PAS ulama council secretary Datuk Nik Muhammad Zawawi Salleh himself admitted to the existence of this friction, likening the disagreements between Umno and Bersatu to the complexities faced in a polygamous marriage. This suggests that historical political shifts and the origins of some leaders within Bersatu, many of whom were formerly associated with Umno, contribute to the ongoing tensions.
PAS's Dual Strategy and Grassroots Influence

Within PAS, there appears to be a concerted effort by senior party leaders, including the Mursyidul Am, president, vice president, and secretary-general, to foster support for the Muafakat Nasional (MN) cooperation among grassroots members. This initiative is being pursued concurrently with PAS's continued engagement with Bersatu, indicating a complex balancing act. This dual approach highlights PAS's efforts to maintain relationships and influence across different political alliances, even as internal party dynamics and external pressures shape its strategic positioning.

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Why are Bersatu and PAS conflicting over their main enemy?

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