On second thought I'd have to agree with you that it was an omission, but before it occurred the idea that there would be an election at the end of January seemed almost fantastical. When it happened, and was seen on live global television, with such numbers and palpable courage on the part of people many (including not a few on the right) thought were wholly unready, assessment of its importance changed completely. Sometimes history and world views can turn on a dime.
World views can change on a dime"
Precisely. The 'accepted truth' that 'everyone knows' syndrome is alive in well in punditland.
Now everyone 'knew' that the scheduled elections were destined to be significant.