KUCHING: The 13th Sarawak state election could be held as early as December this year.
Sarawak Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts Minister Datuk Seri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah said the dissolution of the state legislative assembly would ultimately depend on the decision of Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Abang Openg.
Karim said the current term of the Sarawak assembly would automatically expire in February 2027 after completing its five-year term.
"Once the assembly is dissolved, the Election Commission (EC) is required under electoral law to hold an election within 60 days.
"Some say it could be held as late as February, but I see December as the likely period, based on the assembly's five-year term," he told reporters today.
He said if the assembly were dissolved in late October or November, the EC would need time to meet and determine the election dates, as well as set a campaign period that typically lasts about two weeks.
Karim said holding the election in January or February would be less suitable because of several festive celebrations and Ramadan, leaving a narrower window for the polls.
"So, we only have November and the first half of December. It may happen, or it may not. Everything depends on when the assembly is dissolved.
"I can say that the dissolution will take place soon," he said.
Karim, who is the information chief of Parti Pesaka Bumiputera Bersatu (PBB) and Parti Demokratik Progresif (PDP), said Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) was ready for the state election, adding that opposition parties were also expected to be making preparations.
He said the decision on GPS candidates would be left to the coalition's top leadership, although he expected changes to the line-up at every election to ensure leadership continuity.
"At every election, at least 10 per cent of candidates may be replaced, and among the 10 to 30 per cent of new candidates, we must also take into account the roles of women and young people," he said.
On GPS's chances of retaining its two-thirds majority, he said the coalition was confident of maintaining its performance but would not take any of Sarawak's 82 state seats for granted.
"Every seat is important. We cannot assume there are white, grey or black seats because we must respect voters and ensure they have the best elected representatives," he said.
Asked about the future of the Asajaya seat, which he has held for about 25 years, Karim said he would leave the decision to the Sarawak Premier.
He said he was also prepared to step aside if the leadership felt it was time to give younger candidates an opportunity.
"I am ready to make way and support whoever is chosen. But I leave that decision to the Premier," he said.
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