UMNO Leaders Refuse To Reveal GE15 Date, Ismail Sabri To Speak With King Thursday

The date of Malaysia's next general election remains shrouded in mystery after ruling United Malays National Organisation party leaders told divisional leaders that it can happen anytime from now, with all eyes on Prime Minister Ismail Sabri's upcoming audience with the King.

• The Prime Minister insisted that it is his prerogative to advise the monarch on dissolving parliament whenever he sees fit and refused to name any specific date. UMNO President Zahid concurred and vowed to respect the Prime Minister's decision, but suggested he would prefer the Premier to have already dissolved the legislature.
• Both Ismail Sabri and Zahid firmly rejected the possibility of discussing the timing of election with opposition parties. UMNO leaders have also pushed back against suggestions that they should consult with coalition partner Perikatan Nasional or hold an open debate on the matter.
• The Prime Minister will have an opportunity to speak with the King on Thursday, during a routine pre-Cabinet meeting. While the confirmation that a long-awaited anti-party hopping law takes effect today clears another obstacle to the election, the government said it is still planning to table Budget 2023 on Friday.
• The New Straits Times reported that a pre-budget dissolution might be on the cards. Its sources said momentum is strong behind UMNO's push for a snap election and top five leaders of the party have already chosen the date. They reportedly agreed that Ismail Sabri will be the party's candidate for Prime Minister, which was believed to be one of his key objectives in delaying the election.