N Sembilan MB says exco members locked out of offices

Seremban, September 24 — Negeri Sembilan's Chief Minister, Datuk Ismail Lasim, announced that state executive councillors (exco) have been barred from accessing their offices at Wisma Negeri and have been prohibited from carrying out their duties. Ismail, who also serves as the Juasseh assemblyman, informed the public that he had received notification of the exco members being prevented from entering their respective offices and performing their responsibilities.

The palace recently revealed that Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir, a top official, revoked the exco appointments immediately following a meeting on September 15, citing a violation of their oath of office. According to Ismail, the directive informing exco members of the ban was conveyed verbally rather than in writing. He urged the responsible authorities to reconsider the directive, taking into consideration the ongoing dispute and the importance of maintaining smooth state administration and public affairs.

Ismail made this request through appropriate channels and assured that it would not obstruct the authorities' ability to maintain security. He appealed for all parties to grant the state government and the legal process the opportunity to resolve the issue. Ismail emphasized that the current exco members remain legitimate and should continue fulfilling their duties without interruption, as blocking their access to offices or meetings could have a significant impact on decisions affecting the people's interests.

He also stated that he had not been consulted regarding the termination of any exco member under Article 38(5) of the State of Negeri Sembilan's Constitution.