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BARISAN Nasional (BN) has declared itself prepared for potential state elections in Melaka, Johor and Negeri Sembilan, as speculation grows over possible snap polls following recent political manoeuvres.
Its chairman, Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who also serves as Deputy Prime Minister, said coalition parties were election-ready but stressed that it was premature to announce candidates.
“All of Barisan’s parties are prepared and, more importantly, when the mandate is returned to the people, the people must choose the best combination.
“It is too early to identify candidates,” he told reporters after attending the “Unplugged Ansara with TPM” programme.
His remarks come amid heightened political tension, after Anthony Loke, secretary-general of the Democratic Action Party, urged his party’s machinery to remain on full alert for elections in the three states.
Loke indicated that the call to prepare was prompted by a failed attempt to unseat the unity government, increasing the likelihood of early polls.
Attention has particularly focused on Negeri Sembilan, where Barisan Nasional’s position has come under scrutiny.
Zahid dismissed suggestions that Umno might seek to replace the current Menteri Besar, Aminuddin Harun, and reaffirmed the coalition’s commitment to the existing administration.
“We have no intention of becoming the opposition. That was merely a statement.
“But Umno at the central level has decided that the 14 state assemblymen in Negeri Sembilan will remain part of the state unity government,” he said.
The clarification follows remarks by state Umno chief Jalaluddin Alias on May 2, in which he suggested a willingness to move into opposition, if necessary, rather than continue under Aminuddin’s leadership.
Just days earlier, on April 27, all 14 Barisan Nasional assemblymen in Negeri Sembilan withdrew their support for the state government, fuelling uncertainty over its stability and intensifying speculation over a possible electoral contest. - May 6, 2026
