An assault on Negeri Sembilan’s constitutional monarchy and rule of law

In recent days, the sanctity of the rule of law and institutional integrity under Malaysia's Federal Constitution have been severely undermined by several alarming events, according to a group of prominent legal figures. On September 16, the nation was taken aback by the news that Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir, the Yang Dipertuan Besar (Governor) of Negeri Sembilan, had been removed by the state's executive council without any stated grounds, due process, or inquiry.

This act is a blatant violation of the 'Laws of the Constitution of Negeri Sembilan 1959' and an unlawful assault on the constitutional monarchy, the report alleges.

The removal of a constitutional sovereign is an extraordinary measure, requiring strict adherence to due process stipulated under Article 10 of the LCNS 1959. However, the report alleges that no full and complete enquiry was conducted, no charges or grounds of misconduct were ever made public, and the ruler was never notified of any allegations, let alone given an opportunity to be heard. The exco's assertion of holding an enquiry has been called into question, with many arguing that the process was never truly conducted.

Further doubts arise over the validity of a purported proclamation dated April 19, which was denounced by former menteri besar Aminuddin Harun and disavowed by current menteri besar Ismail Lasim. The invalidity of this proclamation has been affirmed by the Dewan Keadilan dan Undang, the Attorney-General's Chambers, and the state secretary's office.

The report calls for an immediate halt to this assault on Negeri Sembilan's constitutional sovereignty and the rule of law, urging all involved to uphold the Federal Constitution and the LCNS 1959, and respect the ruler's sovereignty.