THE memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed between Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob and opposition pact Pakatan Harapan (PH) is not a “holy book” that prohibits early general election, Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said. 

The Umno president said that while the MOU mentioned about a general election only after July next year, it however did not mean the parties could not deviate from the agreed terms. 

“We respect the MOU, but it is not a ‘holy book’, far from the verses recorded in the Quran. Other than that, God willing, it can be changed. 

“I don’t think we should violate the MOU but the best thing is that we negotiate (this issue) to reach a consensus as all parties have different views,” he was quoted as saying in Utusan Malaysia today.

The Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman also said that a majority decision would be made based on the results of the discussions held. 

Zahid said the decision for an early election would be made based on advice and take into account various factors, including the MOU. 

On September 14, Ismail signed the MOU with PH to allow for political stability and reforms, which will see his position not impacted by any no-confidence motion.

The contents of the agreement include a promise by the government not to dissolve Parliament to make way for GE at least until July 21 next year. 

Zahid’s view of an early election will add pressure on Ismail, who is also Umno vice president, to handle the opposition pact smoothly. 

Zahid also said he did not have the power to determine the date of the election and any decision to hold the polls must take into account all factors, including the interests of the people, which should be a priority. 

“I do not have the power to determine the exact date or period to hold the election because it is the absolute power of the Agong on the advice of the prime minister. 

“So the party’s (Umno) opinion can only be given but of course someone who advises the Agong has consideration based on the arrangements he has,” he said, referring to the powers in the hands of the prime minister to advise the ruler on the dissolution of Parliament.

Last week, BN’s deputy chairman Mohamad Hasan asked the prime minister to consider speeding up GE15, following the coalition’s victory in the Malacca elections. 

Mohamad, who is also Umno deputy president, said the consideration took into account the sentiments of the people who are currently with BN. 

In the Malacca elections, BN, PH and Perikatan Nasional (PN) had decided to contest in all 28 state seats.

BN emerged victorious, winning 21 out of the 28 seats they contested.

The Umno-led BN forms an uneasy relationship with PN in the federal government. – November 28, 2021.