GE16 should be held early as government has entered 'election period', says Asyraf

KUALA LUMPUR: Umno has suggested that the 16th General Election (GE16) be held sooner, as the current government's term has entered what it calls the "election period". Datuk Seri Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki, Umno secretary-general, elaborated that the "election period" refers to the timeframe after three years of a government's administration, when an election can be called, even if the five-year term has not yet concluded.

Asyraf shared this perspective during a visit to the media center for the 2026 Umno General Assembly. He emphasized that any significant plans Umno intends to propose to the public should first obtain a clear mandate from voters, particularly when tackling major national agendas. This sentiment was echoed by delegates not only at the Umno General Assembly but also during the party's branch meetings.

Asyraf also referenced the Johor state election, which was held after four years and one month of the state government's rule. At that time, the government had presented a 10-year plan under the "Johor Maju Johor" vision, which necessitated a clear mandate from voters. Asyraf reiterated that such actions should not be undertaken at the government's discretion but must be backed by the people's approval.

During a recent statement, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Zahid Hamidi endorsed Umno's desire for GE16 to be advanced, so the party can secure a fresh mandate to lead the nation. Zahid highlighted that GE16 would mark a crucial juncture for Umno to regain national leadership, rather than merely being an adjunct to the government.