UMNO Chief Hopes for Consideration of Ramadan in Setting of Ayer Kuning By-Election Date
Tawau: The President of the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO), Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, has expressed hope that the Election Commission (EC) will take into account the upcoming Ramadan month when setting the date for the Ayer Kuning by-election.
"We (UMNO and Barisan Nasional) are not in a rush to have the by-election as Ramadan is approaching. Of course, we hope the EC will choose a date that fits well with the circumstances of the holy month," he said.
Ahmad Zahid, who also serves as the Deputy Prime Minister, made the statement during a press conference after attending the Sabah UMNO 34th anniversary celebration in Tawau.
Commenting on the Ayer Kuning State Seat Vacancy
The by-election was necessitated by the death of its incumbent, Ishsham Shahruddin of UMNO. The 59-year-old Ishsham lost consciousness after participating in a friendly football match at the Penang City Stadium yesterday.
Visiting Former Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob
Ahmad Zahid also announced that he would visit former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob, who is currently hospitalised after fainting at home on Saturday, as soon as possible. "I knew about it yesterday, but haven’t got the chance to visit him…due to prior engagements. Today, I am in Tawau, and tomorrow, I will be in Kota Kinabalu," he said.
Officiating Ceremonies in Tawau
During his one-day working visit, Ahmad Zahid, who is also the Rural and Regional Development Minister, officiated the closing ceremony for the Sentuhan Kasih Desa@Tawau 2025 programme, hosted by the Ministry of Rural and Regional Development and the opening of the Kalabakan UMNO division office.
Conclusion
In conclusion, it is clear that the UMNO Chief is taking a cautious approach in the matter of the Ayer Kuning by-election, taking into account the upcoming Ramadan month. As the country gears up for the by-election, it remains to be seen how the EC will respond to the request.
FAQs
Q: Why is the UMNO President calling for the EC to consider Ramadan in setting the by-election date?
A: To ensure that the by-election date is conducive to voters, considering the holy month of Ramadan.
Q: Who is the incumbent of the Ayer Kuning state seat?
A: Ishsham Shahruddin of UMNO.
Q: What is the reason for the by-election?
A: The death of its incumbent, Ishsham Shahruddin.
Q: Who is the former Prime Minister being visited by Ahmad Zahid?
A: Datuk Seri Ismail Sabri Yaakob.