Nornekman Osman, the Johor Pejuang deputy chief, said he was ready to throw his hat into the ring.

His father was Bersatu’s Kempas assemblyman.

Nornekman said he hoped to be the candidate for the same seat if possible.

“The residents are very close to our hearts, following my father’s three terms as the assemblyman there.

“However, I will let the party leaders decide who they want for the elections,” he said, according to Bernama.

Speculation of snap elections in Johor began circulating shortly after Osman’s death on Dec 21. The state assembly was finally dissolved last Saturday.

Johor Pejuang chief Shahruddin Md Salleh had said the party would be fielding candidates in 42 seats.

Nornekman said Pejuang hoped to gift Mahathir, who is recovering at the National Heart Institute, with a victory in the elections.