Can Anwar Win Next GE: PM Confident, Opposition Stirs the Pot

Can Anwar Win Next GE: PM Confident, Opposition Stirs the Pot


12 Feb 2025 • 6:30 PM MYT



Kpost
Operation Consultant who is a keen observer of politics and current affairs

Photo Credit: Benarnews


Prime Minister Dato' Seri Anwar Ibrahim believes that if a general election were held today, his government’s service reforms and growing civil service support would secure victory.


As his administration completes two years in power, Anwar is optimistic that his policies have strengthened the public’s trust, particularly among over a million civil servants and their families.


Reforms and Civil Service Backing: Anwar’s Winning Formula?


Anwar has made reforming government agencies and improving public service delivery a priority. He acknowledges that past administrations have left deep-rooted inefficiencies, corruption, and financial mismanagement, which his government is now addressing. He said that if a GE were held today, he would feel more confident because over a million civil servants who perhaps weren’t supportive before are now shifting towards his administration.


His administration has focused on tackling systemic issues, including reducing waiting times at immigration and land offices, a move aimed at enhancing public perception of government efficiency. Anwar insists that the sincerity of his government in implementing these reforms is resonating with the civil service, a key voting bloc.


While critics argue that his reforms are too slow or lack impact, Anwar remains unfazed, stating that expectations have risen and that his government is closely monitoring public service performance in the coming months.


Bersatu’s Snap Election Claims: A Mere Political Gimmick?


Meanwhile, speculation about a snap election has been dismissed as political theatrics by UMNO leaders.


Bersatu secretary-general Dato' Seri Mohamed Azmin Ali suggested that the party is preparing for a possible election at the end of the year.


But UMNO vice-president Dato' Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin brushed it off as a publicity stunt. “They have nothing else to say, so they are deliberately making these claims just to attract attention,” Khaled said.


UMNO leaders argue that frequent elections disrupt governance and economic stability. With the unity government still rolling out new policies, they believe an election would be premature.


Johor UMNO Youth chief Noor Azleen Ambros echoed this sentiment, accusing Bersatu of attempting to derail Anwar’s reform agenda. He suggested that Bersatu is testing the waters to provoke a reaction from the ruling coalition.


Tian Chua: A 2026 General Election is More Likely


Adding another layer to the debate, former PKR leader Tian Chua speculated that Anwar might dissolve Parliament in 2026 to align the general election with the Melaka and Johor state elections. This strategy would reduce the cost of holding separate elections and consolidate voter turnout.


Analysts suggest that Anwar could use an early election as a strategic move to capitalize on his administration’s reforms while avoiding any potential surge from the opposition. Given Malaysia’s history of political instability, a strong and timely electoral mandate could help Anwar secure his position for a full term.


With GE16 constitutionally due by February 2028, Anwar’s government must carefully weigh the benefits of an early election. His administration’s success in managing economic challenges, maintaining political stability, and fulfilling reform promises will determine the right timing.


For now, the battle lines are drawn with Anwar banking on reforms and civil service loyalty, while the opposition stirs election rumors. Whether Malaysia will see a snap election soon or a calculated 2026 dissolution remains a question of political maneuvering and public sentiment.