Johor Menteri Besar Onn Hafiz Ghazi has dismissed ongoing rumours that the state legislative assembly would be dissolved today.
The clarification follows intensifying speculation regarding a potential snap state election, fueled by public statements from various politicians and competing claims over seats.
Addressing the 56-member assembly at Kota Iskandar, Onn Hafiz noted that the political temperature appeared to be rising during the current debate session.
He acknowledged that some members believed this might be the final sitting before a state poll was called.
However, during his winding-up speech, the menteri besar directly addressed these concerns to provide certainty to the administration and the public.
He announced that the assembly would not be dissolved today and advised all members to remain calm.
Focus on service for Bangsa Johor
Onn Hafiz urged state assemblymen to set aside election-related matters for the time being. He emphasized that the priority remains serving the residents of the state and the broader Bangsa Johor community.
The menteri besar highlighted that there are still numerous government programmes and initiatives that require full implementation.
He advised honourable members not to be preoccupied with the timing of the state election but to remain dedicated to their duties.
The current assembly is not due for automatic dissolution until April next year. According to the law, once the assembly dissolves at the end of its term, a state election must be conducted within 60 days.
Current political standing in Johor
The state government is currently led by Barisan Nasional, which secured a significant mandate during the previous state election in March 2022. The coalition holds 40 of the 56 seats in the house.
The remaining seats are occupied by Pakatan Harapan with 12 representatives, Perikatan Nasional with three, and Muda with a single seat.
Despite the firm majority, the menteri besar’s statement aims to curb further political instability and ensure that the state administration continues to function effectively without the distraction of premature election campaigning.
