Now that the curtain has closed on the Perlis shadow play, the outcome is clear for all to see.

Bersatu’s Abu Bakar Hamzah has replaced Shukri Ramli of PAS as Perlis menteri besar.

It is the result of a shocking betrayal orchestrated by former state strongman Shahidan Kassim and factions from within the Bersatu leadership.

Abu Bakar’s appointment came after eight Perikatan Nasional assemblymen reportedly submitted statutory declarations to the Perlis ruler withdrawing their support for Shukri.

Despite the unconvincing denials, it is clear that Shukri has been the target of a viscous campaign for a prolonged period.

But the response of PAS leaders is clear. They can barely control their anger at the betrayal which spells the end for the tottering Perikatan Nasional coalition.

PAS Youth chief Afnan Hamimi Taib Azamudden even said PAS has nothing to lose from its ally’s “departure”, and should continue its struggles on its own.

For what benefit does it serve PAS to continue with a treacherous partner? They are the big brother who have generously allotted Bersatu many winnable seats.

So what is the purpose in allowing the alliance to continue? Bersatu is at war with itself as the lame duck Muhyiddin Yassin fights off the attack of Hamzah Zainuddin.

Some of its elected representatives have defected and betrayed, been suspended and even sacked. Why should PAS trust them with more seats in the next general election?