Logistics, Preparedness Issues Prevent Simultaneous Johor, Negeri Sembilan Polls - EC

PUTRAJAYA, June 12 (Bernama) -- The Election Commission (EC) says it cannot hold the Johor and Negeri Sembilan state elections simultaneously due to logistical constraints, training needs and preparedness issues.

EC chairman Datuk Seri Ramlan Harun said the machinery in Negeri Sembilan requires a longer preparation period following the unexpected dissolution of the state legislative assembly.

“In Negeri Sembilan, it was a 'snap dissolution', so there was a lack of preparedness. We need time for them to fully focus.

“We complete Johor (polls) first, then we bring all the teams (from Johor) to assist Negeri Sembilan. If both are held simultaneously, preparation would be inadequate,” he told a press conference after chairing a special meeting to discuss the arrangements and key dates for the two state polls here today.

The 56-seat Johor State Legislative Assembly was dissolved on June 1, while the 36-seat Negeri Sembilan State Legislative Assembly was dissolved on June 5.

On allegations questioning the validity of the Negeri Sembilan dissolution, Ramlan stressed that the matter is outside the jurisdiction of the EC.

Ramlan said the EC had sought the views of the Attorney General’s Chambers on the matter and so far, there have been no issues.

The EC fixed July 11 for polling in Johor and Aug 1 for polling in Negeri Sembilan.

The nomination of candidates in Johor will be held on June 27, while that for Negeri Sembilan is July 18.

-- BERNAMA