SANDAKAN: Sabah Umno begins preparations for the 16th General Election should the polls be called early, says Datuk Jafry Ariffin.
The Sabah Umno liaison committee chairman said its election machinery is primed.
“In fact, last week I called a meeting of the Sabah Umno Liaison Committee to map out our preparations and the work needed for the election.
“I understand that a schedule has already been drawn up for us to be ready.
“We do not know when it will be,” said Jafry, who is also Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister.
He said this after officiating Sepilok Jazz 2026 at the Rainforest Discovery Centre here on Saturday (Sept 5).
Umno president and Barisan Nasional chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said on Thursday (Sept 3) that it would be better for GE16 to be held earlier so that the government could seek a fresh mandate from voters.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said on Friday (Sept 4) that the proposal could be considered, although the government’s current focus remained on the economy, public well-being and combating corruption and abuse of power.
The 15th Parliament is to reach the end of its full term on Dec 18, 2027.
