COMMENT | The country’s worst-kept secret was out on Monday afternoon. What had been talked about, discussed and rumoured came to fruition when the prime minister announced the dissolution of Parliament.

Never mind that the debate and passing of the 2023 Budget have yet to be completed. Never mind that the Yang di-Pertuan Agong’s concerns were ignored and a statement from the palace said he was disappointed with the latest political developments in the country.

There are many interpretations that can be interpreted but when the prime minister makes such a request, there is little his Majesty can do as he could no longer stall the efforts of one party’s zeal for fresh elections.

Although the dates of nomination and polling have yet to be announced, the campaigning has already started. Soon, we will have candidates kissing babies, sitting on the mat sharing teh-o and karipap (paid-for by party supporters) with constituents, some of whom had not come by for years.

Bold statements will be made, then revoked and denied and the familiar “I was misquoted” line will be heard or seen...