IPOH: A by-election for the Ayer Kuning state seat is necessary as the 15th Perak State Legislative Assembly’s five-year mandate has yet to reach the three-year mark, says Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad.
By-elections need not be held if a vacancy occurs after the three-year threshold.
Saarani’s remarks follow the passing of Ayer Kuning assemblyman Ishsam Shahruddin, 59, yesterday due to a heart attack while participating in a football tournament in Penang.
"If the Election Commission (EC) convenes a meeting, they will determine the by-election date within 60 days,” he told reporters at Ishsam’s residence at Taman Desa Seri Ampang here on Sunbday (Feb 23).
The First Meeting of the First Session of the 15th Perak State Assembly was held on Dec 19, 2022.
ALSO READ: Perak Speaker to notify EC on Ayer Kuning seat vacancy
Perak State Assembly speaker Datuk Mohammad Zahir Abdul Khalid had earlier said that the EC would be notified of the Ayer Kuning seat vacancy as early as Tuesday (Feb 25).
Meanwhile, Saarani expressed grief over the loss of a close friend and dedicated people’s representative.
He said the Tapah Umno division chief was proactive in addressing issues in his constituency and frequently sought allocations to improve public facilities.
"Ishsam was a committed state assemblyman who served the people well," he added. - Bernama
