Speculation is mounting that Johor could be heading towards an early state election following talk of a special state assembly sitting on June 24, with claims that invitations to the session have already been circulated within political circles.
Screenshots of WhatsApp messages alleging that the special sitting would take place on June 24 have also gone viral.
The New Straits Times contacted the Johor menteri besar’s office but was informed that it could not confirm the matter at this stage.
Rumours fuel election speculation
The speculation has intensified talk that the proposed special sitting could be linked to a possible dissolution of the Johor state assembly to pave the way for fresh state polls.
Although no official announcement has been made, sources within Umno in Johor said discussions surrounding a possible dissolution had become increasingly active over the past few days.
Several party insiders remained cautious, with some declining to comment directly on whether the state assembly would soon be dissolved.
“There are talks, but at this stage, nothing has been officially announced. Everyone is waiting for the Menteri Besar’s next move,” said a source familiar with the discussions.
Another source claimed the speculation was partly driven by growing confidence within sections of Barisan Nasional in Johor, which is believed to be satisfied with its current political standing and grassroots support.
Questions over possible dissolution
The rumours come amid broader national political manoeuvring as parties continue recalibrating their strategies ahead of future elections.
The NST also contacted Johor State Assembly Speaker Mohd Puad Zarkashi, who had not responded at the time of publication.
Meanwhile, Pasir Gudang MP Hassan Abdul Karim said he had not received any invitation to attend the alleged special sitting.
“There is a strong possibility that if a special state assembly sitting is held on June 24, the agenda or proceedings may involve the dissolution of the Johor State Assembly,” he said.
Hassan noted that the assembly’s five-year term would only expire in 2027, making an early dissolution a realistic possibility should the special sitting proceed.
Sultan’s consent required
He added that any dissolution of the assembly would first need to be presented to the Sultan of Johor for consent, either on or before June 24.
“The Menteri Besar is responsible for advising the Sultan of Johor and obtaining the ruler’s consent for the dissolution. It is unclear whether this process has already taken place,” he said.
Hassan added that if consent were granted, it would be appropriate for the assembly to table a motion related to the dissolution during the sitting.
He also said the assembly proceedings mainly concerned the 56 Johor assemblymen and other relevant parties, including the media.
Johor last held its state election in March 2022, when Barisan Nasional secured a commanding victory by winning 40 out of 56 seats.
Checks at Bangunan Sultan Ismail, where the state assembly usually convenes, showed no visible preparations for a special sitting, while assembly officials said they were unaware of any such arrangements.
For now, political leaders in Johor remain publicly cautious as speculation continues over whether the southern state could be heading for another electoral contest.
