Barisan Nasional (BN) chairman Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi called on political parties to set aside discussions about the prime ministerial post and prioritize the upcoming Melaka state election. Zahid spoke after officiating the closing of the 2026 National Orang Asli Sports Carnival at EduCity Sports Complex in Iskandar Puteri on September 6, 2026 [1, 2].

"It is too early to put forward someone for the post of prime minister as the election could still be some way off, or it could happen sooner. We do not know when Parliament will be dissolved. I think we should set that aside for now and focus on the Melaka election," Zahid said [1]. He reiterated in another statement, "It is too early to put forward someone or a particular figure to hold that position because the election could still be far away or it could be otherwise. We do not know when Parliament will be dissolved. I think it is better that we put that aside for now and focus on facing the Melaka state election" [2].

Zahid added that BN is prepared to face the 16th General Election (GE16) whether it is held early or if the parliamentary term runs its full course. "In my view, if the general election is held earlier, that would be better so that we can obtain the people’s mandate. But if this term runs until the end, we are also prepared to face it," he said [3].

Political analyst Dr Azmi Hassan said Zahid's call for an early general election is likely influenced by recent momentum from state polls and political pressures, including issues like the Royal Commission of Inquiry into Tabung Haji and Felda matters. Dr Azmi said, "The pressure, combined with the momentum from the state elections, makes it logical for Zahid to call for an early general election" [3].

PAS president Tan Sri Abdul Hadi Awang said PAS has a potential prime ministerial candidate among its leaders but will keep the identity confidential until after election results are assessed [1, 2]. Zahid's absence from the PAS muktamar delegation was seen as a way to maintain BN's political flexibility, including possible cooperation with Perikatan Nasional (PN) [3].

The current 15th Parliament's term is scheduled to end in December 2027, with the next general election required within 60 days following its dissolution or expiry [3].