UMNO President Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has confirmed that a by-election will be held to fill the vacancy following the death of Ayer Kuning assemblyman Ishsam Shahruddin, 59, from Umno.
He said the Election Commission is expected to announce the nomination and polling dates soon, adding that he has urged the EC to consider the upcoming Ramadan period.
Ishsam died after he suffered a heart attack at a football match at the City Stadium in Penang on Saturday.
Zahid said he has already communicated with the Perak Menteri Besar to coordinate with the EC in setting the dates for nomination and polling.
“I have informed the Perak Menteri Besar to contact the EC Chairman to determine suitable dates for the nomination and polling.
“We are not in a rush to proceed, but considering that Ramadan is approaching, we hope the chosen date will be appropriate for the holy month,” he said.
“We leave it entirely to the Election Commission chairman to decide on the dates,” he added. - February 23, 2025