KUALA LUMPUR — The constitutional structure of Perlis permits the holding of by-elections when the ruling government’s majority is compromised, even if the State Legislative Assembly still has remaining term before automatic dissolution. Former Election Commission chairman Tan Sri Abdul Aziz Mohd Yusof highlighted this legal position in response to the unfolding political developments in the state.
He stated that once the Speaker formally acknowledges that the government no longer maintains a majority, the EC is obligated to hold by-elections to fill the affected seats to restore the state’s political stability and ensure smooth administrative functions.
The matter gained significance after Speaker Rus’sele Eizan confirmed that the strength of the ruling bloc had been disrupted following unexpected vacancies in three seats involving PAS assemblymen whose memberships ceased immediately based on constitutional provisions.
Rus’sele added that although normally elections are not required if a DUN has exceeded three years in term, the current situation warrants exceptions because it directly affects governmental stability and service delivery to the people.
Abdul Aziz further noted that if the situation escalates to a point where no simple majority can be restored, the Menteri Besar may need to seek royal consent to dissolve the DUN and pave the way for a state election.
He stressed that without a clear majority, governance could stall due to potential confidence votes and difficulties in passing administrative and legislative matters, potentially weakening state leadership effectiveness.
The former EC chief concluded that restoring political certainty is crucial to ensuring continued governance and safeguarding the interests of Perlis citizens.