MB’s U-turn on Tuanku Muhriz’s ‘removal’ may prove pivotal, says lawyer

Negeri Sembilan's Chief Minister Ismail Lasim has recently made a significant about-turn, affirming the validity of a state proclamation that removed Tuanku Muhriz as the ruler, despite initially disavowing the proclamation on April 19. This shift could potentially become a pivotal issue if the matter escalates to court, warns senior lawyer Rosli Dahlan.

Rosli highlighted that Ismail's earlier claim of signing the proclamation "against his will and under duress" might affect his credibility as a witness, as the court will have to assess the consistency of his statements. Furthermore, Rosli questioned the legality of endorsing an invalid proclamation, as per Article 10 of the Negeri Sembilan Constitution.

The disagreement over the legitimacy of the proclamation also extends to the appointments made by Tuanku Muhriz, as the legitimacy of Ismail's appointment as Chief Minister and the new Exco members has been put into doubt due to the disputed office of Tuanku Muhriz. Rosli emphasized that the court may have to determine the constitutional consequences of the various positions taken on the issue, which could have significant repercussions on the functioning of the state administration.