KUALA LUMPUR: With less than a year till the Parliament term ends, the 15th General Election (GE15) could be just months away, says Datuk Seri Zambry Abd Kadir.
According to Barisan Nasional secretary-general, Barisan was ready for any eventuality, even if the polls were called by the third quarter this year.
Zambry also said Barisan is hopeful for a “major event” this year.
“I don’t dismiss any possible dates, especially whether or not it will be the third or fourth quarter (of the year).
“Now we are coming into Q3, and in a few months, it’s going to be Q4.
“I must state here that Barisan is prepared for any possibilities,” Zambry said in a talk with the Concorde Club on Wednesday (June 15).
Zambry also said early preparations have always been Barisan’s tradition, and Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob had repeatedly assured that the dates for GE15 would be discussed with Barisan’s top leaders.
“For Barisan, we are prepared if the Prime Minister decides to hold the general election this year,” said Zambry.
The Concorde Club, initiated by former Bernama chairman Datuk Seri Azman Ujang and Star Media Group (SMG) adviser Datuk Seri Wong Chun Wai, is an informal gathering of journalists and opinion shapers with political and business leaders.
Pressed further by reporters on the dates of dissolving the 14th Parliament, Zambry said that the decision was the prerogative of the premier.
“I can’t speak for the PM. But as you said, it could be Q3 or Q4 this year. It all depends on the PM’s discussions with the relevant party leadership,” said Zambry.
Zambry said Umno’s top five - president, deputy president and three vice-presidents - have met several times this year.
“Of course, it’s not purely on election matters. We also discussed other matters,” said Zambry, adding that Umno’s top five will give their say on dates for GE15.
Zambry also said Barisan had begun preparations for GE15 several months back.
“So now, we are moving forward with party activities and plans to strengthen the party’s leadership,” he added.
The current Parliament sitting will expire in mid-July next year.
Umno deputy president Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan had said on June 14 that the best time to hold GE15 will be after the tabling of Budget 2023 in October, but stressed that the upcoming federal Budget must be attractive to the people.
