Nik Aziz happy with Dr M’s move - The Star

By Ian McIntyre

KOTA BARU: Mentri Besar Datuk Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat was the “happiest politician alive” after he was told that former Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad had decided to leave Umno.

Nik Aziz, who is also PAS spiritual adviser, however opened the door for Dr Mahathir to join the Islamist party because he was a strong leader with principles and a sharp mind, which would be beneficial to PAS.

However, he said it was not a formal invitation but Dr Mahathir should join PAS of his own accord.

He said the news would rejuvenate PAS members and “inspire” Umno members to leave, as the party was no longer relevant.

He said Dr Mahathir should have left Umno a long time ago and chosen Islam as the platform for his political struggle.

He said he admired Dr Mahathir for his intelligence and comforting speeches but the problem was that he followed secularism governance.

[More at http://thestar.com.my/news/story.asp?file=/2008/5/20/nation/21298608&sec=nation]