Political fatwa shouldn't be used for election gains - Amanah

SHAH ALAM - Issues related to Islamic laws should not be exploited for gaining voter support or stirring community sympathy, especially during elections, cautioned Amanah Expert Advisory Council (MPP) Datuk Hasan Bahrom.

He criticised Perikatan Nasional (PN) chairman Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin's issuance of a 'political fatwa' for the Pulai by-election, deeming it irresponsible, excessive, and departing from the realm of legal rules and determinations.

"MPP stresses that it's unjustifiable for any party to release such statements, particularly when it comes from an individual lacking a strong background in religious jurisprudence," he said in a statement today.

Amanah MPP hopes that the public won't be swayed by such cheap political rhetoric, which has the potential to disrupt harmony and foster resentment among non-aligned groups, Hasan added.

The Pagoh MP allegedly declared a 'haram' law for those voting for Suhaizan during a ceramah Perdana in Pulai.

He argued that abstaining from voting for Suhaizan was necessary to express Pulai voters' discontent with the unity government's lack of assistance for those in need.

Hasan expressed concerns over the potential repercussions, such as confusion and a negative impact on the ummah (Muslim community) mindset.

"Muhyiddin's statement, while seemingly presented in jest, was unwarranted and impolite.

"MPP worries that these ideas can be distorted and may lead to public unrest.

"Regardless of our differing political views, matters concerning Islamic law should not be exploited for political gain or to elicit community sympathy, especially during election season," he explained.