‘Time has come for BN to lead’: Zahid demands GE16 held as soon as possible

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 11 — Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has urged the 16th General Election (GE16) to be held as soon as possible, emphasizing the need for Barisan Nasional (BN) to secure a new mandate to govern the nation. In a fiery speech at Umno's general assembly, Zahid argued that GE16 would mark a crucial moment for Umno and BN to regain their political authority, and he outlined the coalition's "blue wave" strategy.

The delegates in the Dewan Merdeka hall responded with a resounding "Yes!" to his proposal. Zahid highlighted the evolving political landscape, stating that Malay politics were no longer solely centered around a single party, and voter loyalty was no longer inherited. He emphasized that the younger generation was less bound by nostalgia for the past and that the party had to adopt a more flexible approach.

Zahid pointed to the lessons learned from the recent elections in Sabah, Johor, and Negeri Sembilan, which provided insights into different voter sentiments and issues. He added that the "blue wave" was not just about supporting BN in government but about regaining the mandate to lead the country. Zahid stressed that GE16 should be held by 2028 at the latest, unless Parliament is dissolved earlier.