Anwar Rules Out Snap Polls, Focuses on Governing Amid Johor Dissolution
Anwar rejects snap polls after Johor dissolution, stressing governance focus as BN, PH, PN prepare to contest all seats.
KUALA LUMPUR, June 5 — Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has dismissed speculation of a snap general election following the dissolution of the Johor state assembly, stressing that his government’s priority is governance rather than polls. “That is their decision. We (the government) have our priorities. We are focused on our work,” he said at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.
Critics accused Anwar of a U‑turn, recalling his May remarks that he might consider nationwide elections if tensions within the unity government worsened . The Johor shock intensified strains after Umno announced it would contest all 56 state seats, sidelining Anwar’s PKR. This was followed by the resignation of two former ministers as PKR MPs, who immediately joined another party as senior leaders.
Snap Polls
Johor BN’s decision to contest all seats has prompted PH to do the same, while Perikatan Nasional confirmed full participation, with PAS hinting at possible cooperation with Umno‑BN. In the 2022 state election, BN won 40 seats, PH 12, PN three and Muda one.
Anwar reiterated that fulfilling government responsibilities remains his administration’s focus, despite mounting political pressure. Full details are available via NST and FMT.
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