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The looming by-election for the Kuala Besut state seat in Terengganu is "critical" for Pakatan Rakyat, Opposition Leader Anwar Ibrahim said today.

NONE Speaking to reporters outside the Dewan Rakyat today, Anwar, however, noted the challenge that would await Pakatan in order to wrestle the state seat away from Umno, as the late Umno assemblyperson, Dr A Rahman Mokhtar ( left ), had won the seat in the May 5 general election with a 2,434-vote majority against PAS' Napisah Ismail.

"Umno has a pretty impressive majority for the seat, but I'm sure PAS and PKR will work together to challenge for this seat," he said.

When asked whether it was too soon to talk about a by-election given that Rahman had only passed away early this morning, Anwar agreed but at the same time stressed that the seat was up for grabs.

"Yes, yes, it is (too soon). I wish my condolences and hope his soul is blessed. But there is a seat that is empty.

"I'm sure PAS will have a meeting soon to decide about this matter," he added.

Should Pakatan Rakyat win this state seat, it could lead to a hung state assembly in Terrengganu.

Currently, BN has 17 seats to Pakatan's 15 in the state.

Terengganu rep dies, first by-election expected