Inappropriate to hold GE15 next year, says Zahid

Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman Ahmad Zahid Hamidi yesterday said it would be inappropriate to hold the 15th general election (GE15) next year due to economic factors and a possible increase in inflation rate.

"I am confident that it will be held this year because there are many indicators pointing in that direction. I think it is most suitable for us to hold it (GE15) this year," he said when met by reporters after officiating at the closing of the Wanita BN Convention at the World Trade Centre in Kuala Lumpur.

He said BN had begun preparing for GE15 at all levels with plans to compete with an underdog spirit to ensure that the party machinery does its best to gain the support of voters.

"We must strive for more than what we achieved before. We will work to be dominant in (GE15) this time, even though we are the underdog being attacked from various sides," he said.

Meanwhile, Zahid in his speech said BN must be quick to fight the opposition over accusations, especially on social media, relating to issues such as the littoral combat ships (LCS), to stop them from "killing" BN.
 
He said the BN machinery could not wait until the campaign period starts to answer the issue.

"The role of the Wanita BN, Youth, Puteri and BN Comms’ social media platforms is to respond immediately to all issues that are raised. Don't wait. We need to anticipate," he said.