In a surprise televised address that caught even senior members of his own party off guard, the Prime Minister announced Thursday that general elections will be held next month, nearly a year ahead of schedule.
The announcement immediately sent political parties scrambling to finalize candidate lists and campaign strategies. Opposition parties called the move "calculated" but vowed to be fully prepared.
Political analysts suggest the ruling party is trying to capitalize on a recent uptick in approval ratings before an expected economic slowdown later in the year.
Voter registration drives have been fast-tracked, with election authorities confirming all logistics will be in place within the required constitutional timeframe.