JOHOR BARU: Parti Amanah Negara’s top two leaders seem to have different views over the “big tent” approach that is being mooted by some in the Opposition, which would include cooperation with Perikatan Nasional.

       Days after Amanah president Mohamad Sabu dismissed any such cooperation, his deputy Datuk Seri Salahuddin Ayub urged the Pakatan Harapan leadership to invite Parti Pribumi Bersatu Malaysia and PAS to hold discussions on the “big tent” strategy before the next general election.

       “We have a common enemy, Barisan Nasional, and it is important for Opposition parties to ensure a one-on-one fight against them in GE15,” he told reporters after breaking fast with the media here on Wednesday night.

       Salahuddin said the discussions should also include Bersatu and PAS under the “big tent” which was part of a resolution approved by Pakatan’s presidential council in Port Dickson last year.

       Although Pakatan leaders have refused to work with “traitors”, he said they must look beyond mere sentiment.

       “We should not dwell on the past but should move ahead for a better future. Opposition leaders should focus on unity and forgiveness instead of fighting over past incidents – for the benefit of the people.”

       He said even though the Opposition failed to make inroads in the last three state elections, it did not mean it would fail in GE15.

       Salahuddin’s statement, however, contrasts with that of Mohamad who said Pakatan was against working with Umno, Bersatu or PAS in the 15th general election.

       He said it was important for the Opposition to create a united front, but dismissed the “big tent” approach with parties in the ruling government.