KUCHING: The state government has no other option but to abide by the emergency order, says socio-political analyst Associate Professor Dr Awang Azman Awang Pawi.
Although the 12th State Election cannot be held during the emergency period, however, he said, this would provide an opportunity for the ruling Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) coalition to galvanise grassroots support.
“This emergency period will provide an opportunity for GPS in terms of campaigning.
“It will also further boost influence and popularity by providing assistance and subsidies to the vulnerable group affected by the Covid-19 pandemic,” Assoc Prof Azman told New Sarawak Tribune on Tuesday (Jan 12).
He also said the opposition too would be able to gain popularity by urging the state government to provide more assistance during the emergency
On the polls, Assoc Prof Azman said election could only be held if the emergency was lifted by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah.
“Polls cannot be held as long as there is an emergency even though the term of the State Assembly (DUN) ends in June.
“In the meantime, GPS will function as the interim government during this period.”
