DAP Prefers GE16 And State Polls In Peninsula Be Held Together

SEREMBAN, Sept 21 (Bernama) -- DAP has proposed that the 16th General Election (GE16) be held simultaneously for both Parliament and State Legislative Assemblies (DUN), especially in Peninsular states, to ensure better party preparations and cost savings.  

DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke said the proposal should be considered to ensure a smoother democratic process and more effective political strategies, particularly for parties under the Pakatan Harapan (PH) coalition.  

“In the last general election, polls had to be held separately due to several factors, including the COVID-19 pandemic.  

“However, in a more stable political situation, it would be better if state governments, especially those under PH, discuss this matter with the Federal Government,” he told reporters after officiating the 23rd Annual Convention of Negeri Sembilan DAP here today.  

He said although the dissolution of State Assemblies falls under state jurisdiction, coordination between state and federal levels is important in the interest of the people and the nation.  

Earlier in his speech, Loke said international media had also reported that under the leadership of Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, Malaysia had scored well, including in terms of a strong economy and political stability.  

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“Of course, the power to decide when Parliament is dissolved lies with the Prime Minister, but at the party level, our responsibility is to prepare so that we are in a strong position when the election is called.  

“Although Parliament’s term can be extended until the end of 2027, several states such as Melaka, Johor and Sarawak will reach the end of their terms earlier (around 2026), which must be taken into account,” he said.  

For the record, the State Assemblies of Penang, Selangor, Negeri Sembilan, Kedah, Kelantan and Terengganu are expected to expire in 2028.  

Commenting on the seat allocation within the Unity Government should elections be held, Loke said DAP’s principle is clear, that any seat won by a party must remain with that party.  

“This principle is well understood by all parties. If we are working within the framework of the Unity Government, then we should not contest against one another. If Barisan Nasional (BN) wins a seat, we will not contest it. If DAP wins, other parties will not contest it,” he said.  

However, Loke stressed that DAP does not compel its partners to continue such cooperation, as it is ultimately up to the stance of other parties.  

“This is the framework and principle we have set. I never said we are forcing anyone to cooperate. What I emphasise is our commitment to making the Unity Government a success and our readiness to continue working together in the future,” he said. 

-- BERNAMA