Pakatan dengan Bersatu peluang PH tangguh PRN lepas PRU16, kata penganalisis

Selangor's Chief Minister Amirudin Shari announced last week that the Bersatu MP almost secured a coalition government in the state ahead of the release of the state budget. According to political analyst Awang Azman Pawi from Universiti Malaya, the Pakatan Harapan (PH) government and Bersatu can allow the administration to be managed by PH until the end of the electoral term, making it possible for PRN to be held after the 16th general election (PRU16).

CSA (confidence and supply agreement) with Bersatu provides an opportunity for Selangor's administration to continue functioning even if Parliament is dissolved, he told FMT.

Delaying PRN Selangor can benefit PH as voters evaluate the state government's performance separately from national sentiment, particularly if Umno and PAS form a coalition for the general election. Holding PRN along with PRU16 would allow the diverse electoral spectrum to unite, he added. However, the bigger concern is whether PH can maintain the trust of voters regarding their ability to govern, especially in relation to living cost issues.

Ahmad Fauzi Abdul Hamid from Universiti Sains Malaysia agreed, suggesting that it would be better for PH to hold PRN Selangor concurrently with PRU16, which should be held early in 2028, given the political risks of delaying PRN. Fauzi believes PH can maintain power in Selangor despite Umno and PAS gaining strong support under the Malay unity narrative during PRU16.

Considering its strength in urban areas and its impressive economic record since taking over the state in 2008, PH's chances of retaining power in the state appear promising. PH should avoid giving overly politicized responses at this time when the economy is uncertain, he added.