Snap polls to resolve impasse? Think about high cost, COVID-19, says Ambiga

The political turmoil has entered its fifth day without any clear indication who will be chosen as premiere of the Malaysian government.

Barisan Nasional and Pas have jointly-opposed to the idea of a unity government put forth by interim Prime Minister Tun Dr Mahathir. The block has called for a snap general election, instead.

One person urging politicians to resolve the current impasse without having to go to the polls is, lawyer and human rights activist Datuk Ambiga Sreenevasan.

"In the likelihood we have a snap election - because everything is done urgently - it will possibly cost between RM750 and RM800 million. So, for me, cost is a big factor.

“Secondly, we have many issues including the COVID-19. I’m not sure if the rakyat is up for another election, she said on Consider This on Thursday, adding that the 2018 General Election cost a staggering half a billion ringgit.

“The coronavirus is not a small issue. Government overseas are treating it as top priority. It will be absolutely foolish for us to expose our people to further risks. So, I'm hoping some good sense will prevail.

“The people gave Pakatan Harapan a gift of a lifetime. Now, it’s being torn to shreds and I think they owe it to us to fix it," said the former Bersih chairman.

Watch the full discussion here: