SHAH ALAM - Bersatu has called on Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to dissolve Parliament, citing public dissatisfaction and eagerness for change.
This challenge comes after Anwar expressed confidence in the Madani government’s ability to win the 16th General Election (GE16) if it was held soon.
Bersatu information chief Datuk Tun Faisal Ismail Aziz questioned Anwar’s optimism, arguing that public sentiment reflected economic hardships rather than support for the government.
"Since he believes he can win, expedite the dissolution because the people can't wait to change the Prime Minister and the government," he said.
Faisal highlighted declining retail sales and a cautious business environment as evidence that the administration’s economic management policies were failing.
He also claimed that during former prime minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin’s tenure, public welfare issues were better handled.
"If we look at the current leadership, it has been two years and we have not seen significant assistance for the people apart from the expansion of burdensome tax scopes.
"The economy is also worsening, making life harder for the public. Therefore, I am confident that the people will support PN," he added.
Bersatu women's wing chief Datuk Mas Ermieyati Samsudin, echoed these sentiments, supporting an early election.
"This is an honest statement, but how can the Prime Minister believe he would win GE16 when his ministers’ performance is unsatisfactory?
"Whatever it may be, we are happy if Anwar wants to hold GE16 earlier," she said.
At the same time, she hoped that the Prime Minister’s statement was not merely empty words.
However, Pas took a contrasting stance, with information chief Ahmad Fadhli Shaari arguing against an early election, citing the public’s ongoing struggles with the rising cost of living.
"Pity the people. While they are struggling with the rising cost of living, Anwar is saying, if the election is held now, the government will win.
"It is unfortunate that the people ended up having this kind of government," he said in a Facebook post on Sunday.