Perak MB: Up to EC to decide on the timing of general and state elections

Perak MB: Up to EC to decide on the timing of general and state elections

IPOH, Sep 27 — Anyone is free to express their views on whether parliamentary and state elections should be held simultaneously, but the final decision rests with the Election Commission (EC) said Perak Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad.

While EC is tasked with managing and conducting elections, Saarani said the commission would usually take into account the opinions of political parties before making a decision.

“What was mentioned by Anthony Loke is his personal opinion as DAP secretary-general.

“I cannot comment on that because my position is that anyone can give their views, but in the end, it is the EC that decides,” he told reporters after officiating the state level Unity Week celebration at Stadium Indera Mulia here.

Saarani said this when asked to comment on Loke’s statement on September 21, in which he proposed that the 16th General Election be held simultaneously for both parliamentary and state to ensure better party preparations and cost savings.

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He explained that the EC would consider many factors before fixing election dates, including the high costs involved and the need to avoid holding polls during the flood season.

On whether Umno would issue its own stand on the matter, Saarani said only the party president can make such a statement, not state liaison chief.

He stressed that the EC is expected to take into consideration the views of all political parties, especially on election expenditure, following the sequence of upcoming state elections.

“We know that there will be the Sabah state election, followed by Melaka, Sarawak, and then Johor.

“So, of course, those timelines and election costs will be taken into account. But ultimately, it is the EC’s decision,” he added.