Tengku Zafrul asks N. Sembilan MB to name who allegedly forced him to sign proclamation

Negeri Sembilan's Chief Minister Datuk Ismail Lasim has been asked by Tengku Zafrul, Senior Political Advisor to the Prime Minister, to reveal who allegedly compelled him to sign the Instrument of Proclamation concerning Yang Dipertuan Besar Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir on August 3. Despite Ismail's seven-page statement addressing the matter, the question remains unanswered.

Tengku Zafrul questioned if the signing was indeed forced and, if so, who exerted the pressure. Ismail had previously stated that no decision was made to dethrone or appoint the Yang Dipertuan Besar; they merely discussed the state administration's position on the proclamation, which was deemed a decision of the Undang Yang Empat.

Tengku Zafrul emphasized that this issue was significant, as Ismail had claimed to be forced to sign the document and filed a police report. Despite being sworn in as Chief Minister on August 2, a day before signing the proclamation, Ismail expressed full support and loyalty to Tuanku Muhriz on September 6. Only after a month, on September 9, did he claim the signature was made unwillingly and under duress.

The state government at the time disputed the validity of the proclamation due to a lack of proper processes and procedures. Tengku Zafrul also inquired about the change in stance of the state executive council meeting chaired by Ismail on September 15, which concluded that the proclamation was valid and enforceable. He asked if the change was due to pressure and, if so, who was involved.