Johor Menteri Besar Onn Hafiz Ghazi has denied claims that the early dissolution of the state assembly was intended to maximise Barisan Nasional’s (BN) advantage in the upcoming state election.
The Johor BN chairman said the timing of the election was determined by practical considerations, stressing that the state government’s priority was the welfare of the people rather than political gain, according to Harian Metro.
Limited window for state election
Onn Hafiz said the state administration had reviewed next year’s calendar and found that several major events would make it difficult to hold the election later.
He noted that February would be occupied by Chinese New Year celebrations, while March and April would coincide with the fasting month and Aidilfitri, adding that festive activities in Johor typically continue beyond the official holiday period.
He also pointed out that November and December this year, as well as January next year, are generally associated with the monsoon season and the Sijil Pelajaran Malaysia (SPM) examinations.
As a result, he said the most suitable period to dissolve the state assembly and hold fresh polls was between now and October.
Stability needed amid global uncertainty
Onn Hafiz said both Malaysia and the wider world are facing significant global challenges that could affect the national and Johor economies.
He cited developments in West Asia, the Strait of Hormuz and other regions as factors contributing to economic uncertainty.
According to him, when the matter was presented to His Majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, who is also the Sultan of Johor, and the Regent of Johor, they emphasised the need to obtain a fresh mandate from the people as soon as possible.
He said this would allow the formation of a stable government capable of responding to ongoing global economic uncertainties.
‘With the world full of uncertainties, Johor must ensure stability,’ he said.
Political advantage not a consideration
The Machap assemblyman also dismissed suggestions that divisions within Perikatan Nasional (PN) or Pakatan Harapan (PH), particularly involving PKR, had influenced the decision to call an early election.
‘Whether it gives us an advantage or not, that was never part of the consideration. Our consideration is to put Johor first,’ he said.
In the March 2022 Johor state election, BN formed the government after winning 40 of the 56 state seats. PH secured 12 seats, while PN won three and Muda captured one.
