Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim says he is open to considering a proposal to hold Malaysia’s 16th General Election (GE16) earlier than scheduled, following recent calls for an early election.
Speaking to reporters after Friday prayers at Masjid Bukit Indah in Ampang today, Anwar said he would consider the proposal carefully before making any decision and presenting it to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.
He was responding to calls from PAS president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang and Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who have both expressed support for an earlier GE16.
Govt focuses on economy, welfare and anti-corruption
Despite being open to the proposal, Anwar said the government’s immediate priorities remain the economy, public welfare and efforts to tackle corruption and abuse of power.
He said the government remains stable and should concentrate on these issues.
Anwar also stressed that people holding public positions who have clean records should not be afraid of investigations by enforcement agencies, including the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC), police and Inland Revenue Board.
“If there is evidence, proceed”
Anwar said enforcement agencies must conduct investigations professionally, fairly and based on evidence.
“If there is evidence, proceed. If there is no evidence, release them,” he said.
He added that he had made his position clear to the Cabinet, stressing that enforcement agencies must carry out their duties without targeting individuals based on political or racial considerations.
“This is about saving the country”
Anwar said he was prepared to face pressure over his administration’s anti-corruption efforts, insisting that the campaign was not about protecting his own position or any particular group.
“This is not about race. This is about saving the country,” he said.
He added that the government had been given a mandate to govern properly and clean up corruption and abuse of power.
Zahid and Hadi say they’re ready
Zahid, who is also Umno president and Barisan Nasional chairman, previously voiced support for an earlier GE16, saying it would allow the government to seek a fresh mandate from voters.
However, BN is also prepared to contest the election if Parliament runs its full term.
Hadi has likewise said PAS is ready for GE16, whether it is held earlier than expected or at the originally scheduled time, adding that the party already has its candidates prepared.
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