Analysts say a new Perlis government without an election depends on a PAS-Bersatu deal, but snap polls may be needed to resolve the crisis
KUALA LUMPUR: A new Perlis state government can still be formed without an election if PAS and Bersatu reach an agreement, analysts say.
This follows the resignation of Mohd Shukri Ramli as Menteri Besar and the declaration of three state seats as vacant.
Universiti Sains Malaysia professor Ahmad Fauzi Abdul Hamid said a new government is possible if Bersatu allows a PAS assemblyman to become Menteri Besar.
He expressed doubt that the two parties could agree, given Bersatu has already forwarded its own MB candidates to the palace.
Election analyst Dr G Manimaran believes a snap election is the best solution to return the mandate to voters.
He argued this would avoid a hung assembly that could paralyse the state administration.
Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia lecturer Dr Jamaei Hamil agreed that dissolving the assembly is an option if no accord is found.
USM analyst Prof Datuk Dr Sivamurugan Pandian said by-elections for the three vacant seats could ensure a stable majority.
He acknowledged the high cost but said it allows parties to gauge public support after the internal crisis.
The vacant seats are Chuping, Bintong and Guar Sanji, declared empty after three PAS assemblymen had their party membership terminated.
Universiti Utara Malaysia analyst Prof Dr Mohd Azizuddin Mohd Sani said by-elections are now legally required.
“If they were fired, they could still be independent representatives and a government could be formed with simple majority,” he said.
He added that the situation clearly shows internal problems within PAS.
Perikatan Nasional won 14 state seats in Perlis during the last general election.
PAS holds nine of those seats, while Bersatu holds five.
The Indera Kayangan seat was won by Pakatan Harapan.
