JOHOR BARU: Barisan Nasional’s announcement to contest all 56 seats in the upcoming state polls has helped Pakatan Harapan decide on its direction in preparing for the election, says Johor Amanah.
Its deputy chairman Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad said Johor Mentri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi’s statement has put an end to speculation on whether Barisan and Pakatan would contest solo or otherwise.
“We extended our hand and asked whether there would be a two- or three-cornered fight, but we did not receive any answer even after a long wait.
“The statement this evening gave us a crystal clear message.
“They have decided to contest all seats, which is not a problem as everyone is free to make their own decision, but it actually helps us set our direction during the (Pakatan) convention tomorrow,” he said.
He told reporters this after meeting Amanah members at a restaurant in Taman Universiti here.
He was commenting on Onn Hafiz’s statement that Barisan would contest all 56 seats, indicating that the coalition is set to go solo.
Earlier, Onn Hafiz said Barisan would contest all 56 seats in the upcoming polls, although the election date has yet to be confirmed.
Dzulkefly, who is also a former state executive councillor, said Johor Pakatan would also present a petition for the number of state seats to be increased.
“There are six state seats with more than 100,000 voters, while another one is nearing that number, and the last redelineation exercise was carried out eight years ago.
“So, the time has come for this to take place and we view this as a better move than appointing assemblymen.
“As such, we have decided to come up with the petition, which will be officially announced during the Pakatan convention tomorrow,” he said.
Dzulkefly was referring to a recent decision to pass a proposal to amend the state constitution to pave the way for the appointment of five assemblymen.
Speculation is rife that Johor could be headed for snap polls by October this year, especially following heightened political activity surrounding Umno’s 80th anniversary celebrations at Istana Besar here on May 11.
However, no official announcement has been made.
The 15th Johor state election was held on March 12, 2022, where Barisan secured 40 of the 56 seats, while Pakatan Harapan won 12, Perikatan Nasional three and Muda one.
Of Barisan’s 40 seats, Umno holds 33, MCA four and MIC three.
