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

Tengku Zafrul Aziz posed five questions to Negeri Sembilan's Chief Minister Ismail Lasim regarding the change in his stance on the proclamation of the reduction of the throne of Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir. The Minister of State's extensive seven-page statement touched upon powers and constitutional matters but failed to address fundamental questions about his appointment.

Ismail previously claimed he was forced to sign the document related to the royal position, submit a police report, and declare his allegiance and loyalty to Tuanku Muhriz. "Only ten days later, the government backed by his persuasion, confirmed the proclamation and requested its continuation," he posted on Facebook. Tengku Zafrul questioned whether Ismail truly was forced to sign the proclamation on August 3 and, if so, who was responsible.

He also asked for an explanation as to why the exco meeting on September 15 confirmed the proclamation, while Ismail filed a police report on September 9, claiming he was forced. Furthermore, Tengku Zafrul inquired about the factors causing Ismail's change of mind, whether he faced coercion again and who subjected him to it during this critical period.

Tengku Zafrul stated that the explanation provided by Ismail about the state government not determining who ascends or relinquishes the throne still doesn't answer his questions about his change of mind. "What really changed, Ismail?" he asked. Previously, Ismail claimed he and the former exco did not decide on reducing or appointing the Yang Di Pertuan Besar Negeri Sembilan.

He said they wouldn't interfere with investigations, customary considerations, or the process of selecting based on the Nine States Government Constitution Act 1959. He also mentioned that the state government honors the ongoing legislative process and will not take actions contradictory to any court decision.