By Adrian Lim
KUCHING, Aug 3: The 12th State Election (PRN12) is expected to be held within 60 days after the Emergency in Sarawak is lifted on February 2, 2022, says the Election Commission (EC).
EC secretary Datuk Ikmalrudin Ishak in a press statement yesterday said the EC had taken note of Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin’s statement on July 31 on the Emergency Proclamation by Yang di-Pertuan Agong Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah.
“The declaration of the proclamation by Yang di-Pertuan Agong was made in accordance with Clause (1) of Article 150 of the Federal Constitution to suspend the state election and that this proclamation shall extend throughout Sarawak starting Aug 2 to Feb 2, 2022,” he said.
Ikmalrudin added an ordinance was promulgated by His Majesty under Clause 2(B) of Article 150 of the Federal Constitution known as the Emergency (Essential Powers) (Sarawak) Ordinance 2021 P.U. (A) 324.
He said under the provisions of Clause (3) of Article 21 of the Sarawak Constitution, the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) that should have dissolved after five years from its first meeting had no effect pursuant to Section 3(1) of the Emergency Ordinance.
The Sarawak DUN should have been dissolved on June 7, five years from its first meeting.
Nonetheless, the provision could not take effect due to the implementation of the Emergency (Essential Powers) 2021. — DayakDaily
