The Perlis State Constitution provides legal space for by-elections to be held if the ruling government loses its majority support, even if the Assembly still has time left in its current term, former Election Commission chairman Tan Sri Abdul Aziz Mohd Yusof has clarified.
He said that once the Speaker confirms that the state government no longer has simple majority control, the Election Commission is obligated to conduct a by-election.
“In Perlis, the Speaker has stated that the majority has been disrupted, meaning the EC is required to act according to the constitutional provisions,” he said.
Abdul Aziz explained that without majority strength, governance becomes unstable, the administration may face potential no-confidence motions, and legislative procedures become difficult to execute.
He added that if stability cannot be restored, the Menteri Besar may also request the consent of the Raja of Perlis to dissolve the house and call fresh elections.
The political crisis emerged after three Perlis seats — Chuping, Bintong and Guar Sanji — became vacant when the Speaker announced the immediate cessation of the assemblymen’s membership under constitutional provisions. PAS’ internal decision earlier had triggered that development.
Media also reported claims that some Perikatan Nasional assemblymen had met the Raja to inform withdrawal of support, further complicating the political landscape.
Although generally elections are not required to fill unexpected vacancies once a legislative term exceeds three years, the Speaker stated that elections are necessary in this situation to ensure political stability and effective administration.
Abdul Aziz reiterated that a functioning democracy requires a clear majority government. If the majority collapses, the people’s mandate must be refreshed through an electoral process. He stressed that this ensures legitimacy, stability, and respect for constitutional order.