[ Laman Ehwal Semasa ReformIS ]
Date: 09 Sep 1999
Time: 03:55:37
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Malaysian PM hints early polls possible: report
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 9 (AFP) - Malaysian Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad has said he may call early general elections following a positive response from the people during his nationwide tour.
"It's possible," Mahathir was quoted by the official Bernama news agency as saying late Wednesday after chairing a monthly meeting of his ruling United Malays National Organisation (UMNO).
He was respinding to a question on whether the good response to his tour meant he would seek an early poll.
"From the faces of the people who attended the gatherings, they appear to be sincere and they were rushing to shake hands. We are very happy with such reception," he said.
Mahathir, who has so far visited Pahang, Johor, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Sarawak and Kelantan, will go on to the states of Selangor, Sabah and Perlis over the next two weeks.
The premier, who has been in power for 18 years and is seeking a fresh mandate, said the UMNO meeting also discussed preparations for forthcoming elections but did not elaborate. UMNO is the dominant party in the National Front coalition.
Malaysia is due to hold its 10th general elections by next June but Mahathir is widely expected to call a snap poll later this year as the economy rebounds from recession.