Batu Sapi by-election, Sarawak PRN can be postponed only if emergency declared - PM

PUTRAJAYA:The Batu Sapi by-election (PRK) and the Sarawak State Election (PRN) process can be postponed if an emergency is declared under Article 150 of the Federal Constitution.

Prime Minister, Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin in a Special Message today, explained this is because the Batu Sapi by-election must be held within 60 days after there is a vacancy for a Parliamentary seat according to Clause 1 of Article 54 of the Federal Constitution.

He said, Clause 4 Article 21 of the Sarawak State Constitution also provides that the PRN must be held within 60 days from the date of dissolution of the State Legislative Assembly (DUN) which can take place at any time.

"But what can be done because that is the will of the Federal Constitution. Then we have to hold the elections.

"Unless an emergency is declared under Article 150 of the Federal Constitution in Batu Sapi and Sarawak, we can postpone these two elections until COVID-19 ends," he said.

Meanwhile, Muhyiddin called on all citizens in Batu Sapi and Sarawak to continue to abide by the standard operating procedures (SOP) with full discipline during the election.

"Similarly, the population in the states of Selangor, Federal Territory, Negeri Sembilan, Melaka, Perak and other states are recording an increase in positive COVID-19 cases.

"I appeal to all brothers and sisters, take care of each other, family members and people around us by complying with all SOPs set by the government.

"Have pity on our frontline workers who have to work day and night and putting their lives at risk to fight this epidemic and protect us all," he said.