Zahid calls out former ally Pas as 'political chameleons', exploiting Islam for brownie points

KUALA LUMPUR - In a bold and direct statement, Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi delivered a tacit pointed rebuke to former ally, Pas, calling them "political chameleons" who opportunistically exploit Islam for brownie points.

Though he did not explicitly name the Islamist party, Zahid's salvos in his policy speech -- that was delivered at the party's general meeting today -- about those with tendency to manipulate religious sentiments for political expediency was an obvious jab at Pas.

"We often hear the Quranic verses being used as a basis for issuing various political fatwas based on self-interest. When they were in power, what happened to the agenda of RUU 355?

"On the issue of hudud, we were once declared as apostates, and then, for the sake of their political greed, they said that hudud is not a priority. They are political chameleons who change their colors and faces," Zahid needled.

The Bagan Datuk MP also pointed out Pas' fickle stance vis-a-vis the recent controversial "Kalimah Allah" issue.

"Now, they are vigorously trying to be champions by distorting the facts, claiming that the current government has compromised the name of Allah but these political chamelons also once stated that it was not wrong for other religions to use the name Allah.

"It is clear and evident that they will change their tune according to the situation. The Malays and Islam, for them, are merely masks used in their political dramas," Zahid chidded.

Pas and Umno used to be allies following the latter maiden defeat in the 14th General Election but they eventually parted ways when Pas chose to side Pribumi Bersatu and in the 15th General Election.