SHAH ALAM, June 7 — Pakatan Harapan will continue to uphold the principles of democracy and the Federal Constitution despite facing the upcoming Johor State Election, which has been described as a decision that was not mutually agreed upon.
Parti Keadilan Rakyat vice-president Dato' Seri Amirudin Shari said the stance is in line with the coalition's commitment to remain an active participant in the nation’s democratic process.
“The reality is that, as explained yesterday by Harapan chairman Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, this election was not a decision that was made and agreed upon collectively.
“At a time when the country and the world are grappling with pressing crises, the people are now being confronted with an election at a time when it is not necessary,” he said in a Facebook post.
Amirudin made the remarks after attending the launch of Harapan's election machinery in Batu Pahat, Johor, which was officiated by Prime Minister cum Harapan chairman Anwar last night.
Also present were Parti Amanah Negara president Datuk Seri Mohamad Sabu, DAP secretary-general Anthony Loke, and other senior coalition leaders.
Amirudin, who is also Keadilan's joint election director, said Harapan's success can only be achieved through discipline, loyalty, and strong teamwork among party machinery members.
In this regard, he called on all Harapan election workers to intensify their efforts to secure victory in Johor in order to defend the reform agenda and ensure the continuity of the MADANI government led by Anwar.
On June 1, the 56-seat Johor State Legislative Assembly was dissolved to pave the way for the 16th state election.
The dissolution was announced by Johor Menteri Besar Datuk Onn Hafiz Ghazi after receiving the consent of the Regent of Johor Tunku Mahkota Ismail.
In the 2022 Johor state election, Barisan Nasional won 40 of the 56 state seats, while Harapan secured 12.
Perikatan Nasional won three seats, while the Malaysian United Democratic Alliance secured one seat.
The Election Commission of Malaysia will hold a special meeting on Friday (June 12) to determine matters relating to the Johor state election.
Its secretary Datuk Khairul Shahril Idrus said they had received formal notification from Johor State Legislative Assembly Speaker Mohd Puad Zarkashi regarding the dissolution of the Assembly on June 2.
