Proclamation to remove ruler was signed under duress, says Negeri Sembilan MB

Negeri Sembilan's Chief Minister Ismail Lasim claimed he was coerced into signing a proclamation aimed at removing the state's ruler, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir. In a statement, Ismail revealed he signed the document under duress, prompting him to file a police report. Four undangs presented a document allegedly containing the proclamation to the media, stating it was signed by Ismail and the four chieftains on August 3.

The chieftains asserted Ismail's signature was valid under Article 10(2) of the Laws of the Constitution of Negeri Sembilan 1959. However, Ismail dismissed the proclamation's validity, deeming it invalid, unconstitutional, and unenforceable. The state government contends the document doesn't adhere to the procedures outlined in Article 10 of the Laws of the Constitution of Negeri Sembilan 1959.

Consequently, they dismissed it as invalid, unconstitutional, and unenforceable. At a meeting on September 8, the state executive council deliberated on forming a peace committee to resolve the adat issue harmoniously and based on consensus. The government also cited Article 71 of the Federal Constitution, which protects the rights and position of the rulers under the constitution.

Despite these efforts, Ismail reaffirmed his unwavering loyalty to Tuanku Muhriz. This development follows the Straits Times' report, which alleged Ismail signed the proclamation on August 3, following his oath of loyalty to the ruler. Ismail previously avoided confirming whether he had signed the document but reiterated his loyalty and denied any involvement from Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi in the attempt to remove Tuanku Muhriz.