The recent political uncertainties in Perak escalated today with Barisan Nasional declaring they will form a new Perak State Government. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak made the announcement at a special press conference this evening that Barisan nasional now holds the majority of seats in the state.

This came about today as 3 elected representatives (who had just quit Pakatan Rakyat to become independents) declared their support for Barisan Nasional. A fourth person - Bota assemblyman Datuk Nasaruddin Hashim, who quit UMNO to join PKR just two weeks ago, also decided to return to UMNO.

Opposition Leader Anwar Ibrahim told AFP, “We are pushing for a dissolution of the state assembly and fresh elections in the state. We must go back to the people and get a fresh mandate.” Perak Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Mohammad Nizar Jamaluddin has informed the sultan of his request for dissolution in a meeting that lasted almost 2 hours this afternoon.

More to follow…