DAP calls for no contest against UMNO in Gerik

The Gerik parliamentary seat falls vacant following the death of its incumbent Datuk Hasbullah Osman on Monday due to a heart attack.

Guan Eng said he made the suggestion to curb the risk of spreading COVID-19 during the by-election.

“Hasbullah's passing invites another by-election in 60 days, which could pose a risk to public health and safety when Malaysia is in the midst of a sharp spike in COVID-19 infection.

"In recognition of his services and that Malaysia is in the third wave of severe COVID-19 infection, there should be no contest in the by-election by the parties against UMNO," he said in a statement posted on his Facebook.

In a similar development, Guan Eng who is also the Member of Parliament for Bagan also expressed his condolences to Hasbullah's family.

“DAP expressed its condolences to the family of Gerik UMNO Member of Parliament, Hasbullah Osman who died yesterday due to a heart attack.

"Despite being on the side of the opposition, Hasbullah has served more than two terms as a Member of Parliament and to the people in his constituency," he said.