Former Malaysia PM Mahathir to defend Langkawi seat in upcoming polls

“Our candidates for elections will be clean and not have been involved in any scandals or misdeeds, crimes such as stealing money. Morally also they are very correct and stick to the rule of law. And respect the system of democracy in the country,” he added.

He also explained that as Malay movement Gerakan Tanah Air has yet to be registered, all candidates will run under the Pejuang banner.

Gerakan Tanah Air was launched in August. It comprises four political parties including the National Indian Muslim Alliance Party (Iman), Parti Bumiputera Perkasa Malaysia (Putra), Parti Barisan Jemaah Islamiah Se-Malaysia (Berjasa) and Pejuang. It also includes NGOs, academicians and individuals.

On Monday, Prime Minister Ismail Sabri Yaakob declared the Malaysian parliament dissolved in a televised address, after receiving consent from the king. 

“With this announcement, the mandate is returned to the people,” he said. 

“The people’s mandate is a powerful antidote for the country to achieve political stability and create a strong, stable and respected government after GE15 (15th General Election).”