Perlis in flux: MB warded, allies seek ouster, Harapan gears for polls

Perlis has found itself in a state of political flux amid efforts to oust Menteri Besar Shukri Ramli.

While Shukri is recovering in the hospital after suffering from chest pain upon returning from China, several elected representatives from his own Perikatan Nasional coalition have allegedly pulled their support for him.

Various media reports yesterday cited sources as saying that five Bersatu assemblypersons and three from PAS have submitted statutory declarations to Raja of Perlis Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin Putra Jamalullail, expressing a loss of confidence in the menteri besar.

The eight constitute a simple majority in the 15-member Perlis state legislature.

Berita Harian cited a source as saying that Bersatu submitted a list of three names to Tuanku Syed Sirajuddin for consideration as the new menteri besar.

Harapan expecting snap polls

Over on the opposition side, Perlis Pakatan Harapan chief Noor Amin Ahmad revealed that he is preparing his coalition for a possible snap election.

"With the administrative experience, and strong cooperation between the unity government parties at the federal and state level, as well as a commitment to transparent, stable, and rakyat-oriented administration, Perlis Harapan is ready to offer new leadership for this state," he said in a statement late last night.

Harapan only has one seat in the Perlis legislature, and no MPs for the state. Its main Madani partner, BN, has no seats in the state.

Losing grip

Shukri - who is from PAS - has been struggling with his grip on power for some time.

In October 2023, it was reported that there was infighting in Perlis PAS.

A month later, Perlis Bersatu chief Abu Bakar Hamzah kicked up a fuss about not being in the exco line-up, a matter that was only resolved a year later.

In August 2024, Shukri also faced calls for him to resign over unspecified reasons.

This year, during the PAS party election, the menteri besar failed to defend his post as the Arau division chief and did not secure a spot in the party's central leadership.

He was also replaced as Perlis PN chief by Shahidan Kassim in October.

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