Bimbang momentum terjejas, BN-PN mungkin terus gesa percepat PRU16

Barisan Nasional (BN) and Perikatan Nasional (PN) may continue to push for early general elections (PRU16) if their coalition performs well in the upcoming Melaka state poll, according to analysts. Many developments in politics are expected to intensify pressure on Anwar Ibrahim, the current Prime Minister, if this happens, says Mazlan Ali.

Both BN and PN are likely to face scrutiny from the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (SPRM) investigations into several allegations, although neither Abdul Azeez Abdul Rahim from Umno nor Jamil Khir Baharom have admitted guilt. The Confidence and Competency Agreement (CSA) between the government and 13 opposition MPs could also influence political predictions leading up to PRU16.

Analysts believe that the recent controversies and SPRM investigations might alter the political tempo, potentially benefiting Pakatan Harapan (PH) in the long run. BN won 48 out of 56 parliamentary seats in Johor last July, while the BN-PN coalition held 25 out of 36 seats in Negeri Sembilan in August, forming the state government.

PN Chairman Ahmad Samsuri Mokhtar recently stated that BN-PN's victory in Melaka could generate new political developments and increase pressure on PH's leadership, led by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. Meanwhile, Umno President Zahid Hamidi suggested that Parliament should be dissolved to allow a new mandate for the people instead of holding a cabinet reshuffle while he serves his house arrest.

However, Mazlan emphasized that BN's victory in Melaka does not necessarily mean PRU16 will be held earlier, as the dissolution of Parliament depends on the prime minister's advice and the Sultan's approval. Anwar has no reason to dissolve Parliament as long as he maintains a majority in the Dewan Rakyat, especially after the recent CSA with 13 opposition MPs, strengthening the government's position.

The government appointed a CSA with 13 MPs, including six from Bersatu led by Muhyiddin Yassin, six former Bersatu representatives, and Muar MP Syed Saddiq Syed Abdul Rahman, on October 29. FMT spoke to Prof. Azmi Hassan, a senior member of the Malaysian Senate, who believes Anwar does not have a reason to follow BN-PN's pressure, particularly as PH faces challenges like the delay in implementing the house arrest of former Prime Minister Najib Razak.

If BN and PN win big in Melaka, Anwar is more likely to stand firm against dissolving Parliament, as the timing of the dissolution after Melaka would not give PH an advantage, he added.