Possible For GE To Be Held If Unity Government Continues To Be Threatened - Anwar

JOHOR BAHRU, May 17 (Bernama) -- Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has hinted at the possibility of dissolving Parliament to hold the 16th general election (GE16) early if the coalition partners in the Unity Government continue to act to undermine political stability.

Anwar, who is also the Pakatan Harapan (PH) chairman, said the stance was taken following the actions of UMNO and Barisan Nasional (BN) to contest all seats in Johor.

Anwar said if the coalition partners choose to 'fight' and break ties, he would not hesitate to return the mandate to the people to determine the future of the country's leadership.

"In fact, in the near future I have to call the PH leadership to negotiate. Not only in these states, but we have to think seriously. If this is how we are compartmentalizing and breaking ties within the government, is it possible that we will choose to hold a general election nationwide?" he said.

He said this when delivering his message at the culmination of PH 2026 Convention at Johor Persada International Convention Centre, here today.

Anwar said that although the final decision on the date of GE is the Prime Minister's prerogative, he will still hold discussions with PH leadership before any drastic steps are taken.

He also gave a stern warning that PH is ready to field candidates in all seats in Johor, Negeri Sembilan, Selangor, Melaka, Penang and Pahang if political negotiations reach a deadlock.

"If this is their choice, PH will contest in all areas in the state of Johor, in Negeri Sembilan, all areas... and we will monitor everything. I will discuss (with) my friends, are we ready to do it immediately (GE)?" he said.

However, the Prime Minister said that he still prioritises a patient approach and wants to save the country through political stability to ensure that the country's economic prosperity continues to be maintained.

"But as I said earlier, if those who start threatening, we will respond firmly. If they negotiate well, we are good, patient, wise people and want to save this country," he said.

Therefore, he called on the entire PH machinery to be on standby and not to be afraid if they have to face a series of elections in the near future in order to defend the party's principles of struggle.

-- BERNAMA