Azmi, who has assumed the role of EC acting chairman, said they have “very experienced” commissioners and staff members in carrying out their duties.

“Whether we have a formal chair or an acting chair like me, the by-election will happen,” he said, referring to the Sungai Bakap state seat.

Yesterday, Sungai Bakap assemblyman Nor Zamri Latiff died due to inflammation in the stomach.

Last night, Penang chief minister Chow Kon Yeow said the state assembly secretary will notify the EC to fill the vacancy.

Former EC chairman Abdul Ghani Salleh retired on May 9 at the age of 66. He was appointed to the position in 2020 and had overseen the Sabah, Melaka, Sarawak and Johor state elections, as well as the 2022 general election.

Asked whether there is any indication on who will fill the vacancy, Azmi said he and the others were in the dark about it.

“If you look at our (federal) constitution, the prime minister makes a choice on the candidate, and gives his name to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong for appointment, and the person will only be appointed after consultations with the Conference of Rulers.

“No one has spoken to me (about the vacancy),” he said.

Earlier, Azmi took part in a G25 book launch.