On the timing of the Melaka state polls, Chin said that it would depend on the chief minister’s political calculations on whether an early election would strengthen BN’s mandate in the state and “increase its number of seats”.
In Awang Azman’s view, the state election would likely be held in the final quarter of the year, possibly sometime in October before the federal budget is tabled, as he expects the state assembly to be dissolved next month.
“This would give BN and PN around two to three months to conclude seat negotiations, gauge grassroots acceptance and finalise candidates based on each party’s actual strengths,” he told CNA.
Awang Azman said the timing would depend on the progress of BN-PN seat negotiations, the readiness of the party machinery, willingness of UMNO divisions to accept seat concessions as well as BN’s relationship with PH at the federal level.
“BN and PN stand to benefit from holding the election earlier, but their chances of maximising victory will depend on reaching a solid seat-sharing agreement and securing genuine grassroots support,” he said.
“Political momentum is important, but effective partnership management (between BN and PN) will be even more decisive.”
