Anytime is a good time for GE14, says PM Najib

Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak remained coy today when asked about the possibility of the 14th general election being called soon, saying that he would need to “check the stars.”

“Any time is a good time. I have to check the stars,” he quipped during a press conference after chairing the Barisan Nasional Supreme Council meeting at Umno’s headquarters in PWTC, Kuala Lumpur, today.

Najib, as Umno president and BN chairperson, had earlier talked at length about recent positive developments in the country, including Malaysia’s success in organising the 29th SEA Games in Kuala Lumpur and the recent 60th Merdeka celebrations.

At the same time, Najib highlighted his upcoming visit to the United States and how it is hoped that it would bring about mutually beneficial partnerships between the two nations.

Given the positive outlook and factors favourable to his administration, Najib was asked whether he believes that now is a good time to go back to the people and seek a new mandate by calling for the 14th general election.

Aside from the feel good factors, it was also pointed out that currently, there appeared to be cracks within federal opposition coalition Pakatan Harapan over the issue of three-cornered fights involving their former ally PAS.

Asked for comment on whether Harapan’s troubles would benefit BN, Najib said mutual understanding and a clear leadership structure are among the prerequisites for a government to inspire confidence that it would bring about stability and a strong administration.

“Not just clarity of policy and vision but also clarity in terms of leadership.

“So, if we use this as a benchmark, the opposition is sorely lacking in terms of clarity of their decisions, their sense of direction for the country, their policies and above all, decision-making within the opposition is in total disarray," he said.

Under such circumstances, Najib went on to urge the people to not set aside Malaysia's opportunity to become one of the "shining stars" among the developing countries. - Mkini