KUCHING, Oct 23 — Some incumbent Gabungan Parti Sarawak (GPS) assemblymen have indicated they are willing to make way for new candidates in the coming state election, said Premier Tan Sri Abang Johari Openg.

He said the coalition’s line-up would comprise a mix of experienced and younger leaders, with new faces expected to feature.

“It is not that they have been dropped, but some have decided to withdraw,” he told reporters at Kompleks Satria Pertiwi here today.

Abang Johari said the final decision on the candidates would be made at a GPS meeting, adding that the proportion of new faces had yet to be determined.

He also appeared to signal that he would defend his Gedong seat when asked by reporters, responding: “Gine fikir kitak (What do you think)?”

Earlier, Abang Johari announced that the Sarawak Legislative Assembly (DUN) would be dissolved on October 26 to pave the way for the next state election.

He said the announcement put an end to months of speculation over the timing of the dissolution.

The 82-member DUN currently comprises 79 GPS assemblymen, two DAP representatives and one independent assemblyman aligned with the ruling coalition.

The next state election will be held based on the existing 82-seat composition, as the proposed expansion of the DUN to 99 seats through the addition of 17 constituencies will not be implemented in time for the polls.

The Election Commission will announce the election timetable, including the nomination and polling dates. — The Borneo Post