GE15 Could Be Discussed At Wednesday's Cabinet As UMNO Keeps Calling For Snap Poll

Malaysia's Cabinet may discuss an early general election (GE15) during its meeting on Wednesday, Prime Minister Ismail Sabri said as UMNO President Zahid reiterated his call for a snap poll.

• Zahid said that the UMNO-led Barisan Nasional alliance wants an early general election to stop the opposition Pakatan Harapan from trying to discredit the ruling coalition. He earlier stressed that BN is ready to contest the election even if it is held during the upcoming flood season.
• Zahid's UMNO colleague and Communications Minister Annuar clarified that party leader meant to emphasise preparedness for election at any time rather than want the poll to be held during the monsoon season, after Zahid's remarks came under criticism.
• With pressure piling on Prime Minister Ismail Sabri to call a snap election, he noted that GE15 could be on the agenda of Wednesday's Cabinet meeting, well ahead of UMNO's "Top Five" leaders' discussion on the matter expected on September 30.
• The current term of the Dewan Rakyat ends in July 2023, which means a general election must be held no later than in September 2023. Yet, speculation is rife that Malaysian voters will cast their ballots earlier than that, possibly by the year-end.