PETALING JAYA: A general election appears to be on the cards “very soon” following calls from the Umno’s three wings, say political pundits.

       Several reasons for the early polls include victories at state elections, the expiry of the bipartisan memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the Federal Government and Pakatan Harapan and the quest to remain in control.

       Umno may also be looking to capitalise on the lack of unity within the Opposition bloc.

       Ilham Centre executive director Hisomuddin Bakar said Barisan Nasional’s wins in Melaka and Johor had become a driving force for Umno members after the party was unseated in May 2018.

       “The Opposition had failed to challenge the momentum of victory following their internal division.

       “The results in Melaka and Johor showed that Barisan had an advantage in three-cornered contests,” he said.

       “The Opposition failed to stand united and come up with a strategy to address their shortcomings.”

       Hisomuddin said that with no big issues to pique the interest of voters, Barisan’s narrative for stability might work following the collapse of the Pakatan government.

       “Umno is seeing this as a good and strategic space and opportunity to have (elections soon) while the feel-good factor is still on their side,” he said, adding that voters were also getting bored of political conflicts, leading to low voter turnout.

       Political analyst from Universiti Malaya Awang Azman Awang Pawi also echoed Hisomuddin’s sentiments that the recent victories had given Umno and Barisan the confidence to forge ahead.

       “They know that the Opposition’s unity and popularity is dimming. It is the best weapon to win big come GE15,” he said.

       He also said Barisan was also recovering and more stable compared to other parties and coalition.

       Independent political analyst Khoo Kay Peng said leaders who were facing corruption charges might push for an election after Hari Raya.

       “It could be held as early as July 2022,” he said.

       The MOU inked on Sept 13 last year for political stability and transformation will expire in July.

       According to the MOU, Parliament will not be dissolved before July 31.

       Dr Oh Ei Sun, a senior fellow at the Singapore Institute of International Affairs, said the election timing would depend on the outcome of the “tug of war” between the mainstream faction within Umno.

       “Umno would, in any case, be a part of the next government and likely to take the leading role again.

       “It’s just a question of their margin of victory now (higher) versus later (potentially lower),” he said.