KOTA BHARU, Nov 24 (Bernama) -- PAS spiritual leader Datuk Nik Abdul Aziz Nik Mat tonight did not discount the possibility there were people in the party in Kelantan who could succeed him as the menteri besar when he stepped down.

However, he declined to indicate who the potential successors were, saying it was subject to the hierarchy in the party in the state where there was a commissioner and three deputy commissioners.

Nik Aziz also stressed that he would not resign over the problems faced by PAS now or on the urging of anyone, especially the opposition.

"I will not step down except due to ill health or old age, but the time has not come yet," he told Bernama when contacted at his home here.

Nik Aziz was asked to comment on a statement by Kelantan PAS Commissioner III Datuk Mohd Amar Nik Abdullah on the Malaysian Insider website that Nik Aziz should announce his successor to avert a power struggle and conflict in Kelantan PAS later.