STRONG POSSIBILITY OF NAJIB CALLING FOR EARLY ELECTIONS, TUESDAY, \JULY14,2009

The Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib had yesterday ruled out the possibility of a snap election.

He said that he did not see any need to do so as the mandate of the Federal Government would not expire anytime soon.

The last general election was held in March last year and it is therefore true that the Federal Government's mandate is not expiring soon.

Can we then totally rule out the possibility of a snap election ? I don't think we can or should.

We cannot take Najib's denial as a definite conclusion. Certainly he will not say it if this is one of his options.

I believe that if Najib decides to call a snap election, the following conditions will exist or have been fulfilled:

1. his personal rating has gone up to at least 80%

2. he has presented an election Budget with goodies and promises aimed at winning the people's support

3. he is confident of regaining BN's two thirds parliamentary majority

The interesting point to ponder is why will Najib be tempted to call a snap election?

Najib has assumed the office of Prime Minster with a heavy political baggage which resulted in his low approval rating.

He knows his political legitimacy is being questioned and he needs a high approval rating as well a new mandate from the people.

I therefore will not rule out the possibility of a snap election being held as early as end of this year or early next year.

In this regard, Pakatan Rakayt must buck up and be prepared. Internal spat which has tarnished PR's image and credibility must immediately stop.