UMNO’s Bold Move: “Time for a New Election” After the COVID Storm
In a twist that’s sending shockwaves through Malaysia’s politics, UMNO— the big‑basket party that sits at the heart of the ruling coalition—has announced that it’s not shy about calling for a fresh general election the moment the world stops being a feverish roller‑coaster.
Why the Heat Is Ramping Up
- PM Muhyiddin’s Narrow Edge: The current prime minister walks a tightrope with only a slim majority in Parliament.
- Opposition’s Rising Tide: Anwar Ibrahim has put his hand on the premiership scissors, and the change in leadership could be on the horizon.
- Economic Kinks: The economy is still on a shaky recovery path, and the PM is under pressure to smooth that ride.
The King’s “No‑Go” on Emergency Rule
On Sunday, when the PM asked the king to declare an emergency— a move many saw as a way to sidestep a painful test of his majority— the king politely declined. Critics say it’s a blow to the PM’s credibility.
UMNO’s Statement and the “People’s Mandate” Call
In a meeting surrounded by party leaders, UMNO president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said:
“UMNO has decided that the people’s mandate should be returned to form a stable government by holding a general election once the Covid-19 pandemic is under control and at its minimum level.”
Why an Election? What’s at Stake?
- Stability Over Solo Power: The party wants the new government to be a true home‑grown bundle of trust, not just a top‑down show.
- Budget on the Line: The government’s 2021 budget is up for debate next week. If it doesn’t get enough votes, an election could be the only wayout.
- Re‑Balancing the Cabinet: Rumors suggest the PM might shuffle his cabinet to give UMNO more seats at the top of the podium.
What This Means for the People
Think of it like a blockbuster sequel: if the current “movie” (the ruling government) is getting shaky laughs or a cliff‑hanger ending, the audience (the Malaysian voters) wants to know whether it’s worth staying or heading to the theater for a brand‑new plot. UMNO’s message is clear – “We’ll take a fresh test of the general populace’s will when the world’s fever rushes down.”
In Short:
UMNO calls for an election— once COVID fades—and backs the 2021 budget, even as the PM faces a possibly tough vote. The political stage is set, and the drama continues.
