PETALING JAYA: Umno has closed ranks and is prepared to the face general election at any given time under its current leadership, say political analysts and party leaders.

International Islamic University Malaysia law professor Prof Dr Nik Ahmad Kamal Nik Mahmod said the outcome of Umno’s extraordinary general assembly (EGM) on Sunday, which unanimously voted for party elections to be held after the general election, had quashed any internal squabbles.

“There are a lot of strategies involved here. One is that the party will not be divided in facing the general election, which is well and good,” he said when contacted yesterday.

During the EGM, the party had approved the amendment to its constitution to add an extra provision for its supreme council to postpone party polls by up to 18 months or within six months after a general election, whichever is later.

Nik Ahmad Kamal said the amendments would give party president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi some room and more say in the strategies for the upcoming general election, including candidates’ selection.

“The decision on whether to continue the cooperation under Muafakat Nasional will also be within his purview,” added Nik Ahmad Kamal, referring to the pact with PAS.

National Professors Council senior fellow Dr Jeniri Amir said despite the amendment, the Prime Minister and the Cabinet would still decide when to call for an election.

“The most important thing is the timing.

“He (the Prime Minister) needs to ensure it will be beneficial to Umno and Barisan Nasional,” he said.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2022/05/17/a-united-umno-is-a-ready-umno-say-analysts