Negeri Sembilan: Umno’s constitutional miscalculation

Umno's constitutional misstep in Negeri Sembilan has resulted in a crisis that could have been avoided if the party had shown respect for the rule of law and the constitution. The attempt to oust the ruler, Yang Dipertuan Besar Tuanku Muhriz, appears to stem from Umno's political arrogance following its electoral victory. Winning an election does not grant a party the right to manipulate constitutional institutions for partisan purposes.

The customary rules for appointing the Yang Dipertuan Besar seem to have been twisted to serve Umno's political interests. The involvement of Umno's national leadership in the attempt to replace the legitimate Yang Dipertuan Besar remains uncertain. If successful, Umno would have likely welcomed the outcome. The moves to remove the current ruler raise questions of illegality and contradict constitutional requirements.

Umno now finds itself entangled in a legal and constitutional predicament of its own creation. The Attorney-General's Chambers has ruled the attempt to remove the Yang Dipertuan Besar as invalid and against constitutional rules, empowering him to respond. The Yang Dipertuan Besar has revoked the appointments of state executive council members, effectively disempowering the government.

Despite the menteri besar remaining in office, the executive council has been significantly weakened. Umno should not have interfered with Negeri Sembilan's customary system for selecting the Yang Dipertuan Besar, which is part of the state's constitutional heritage. The attempt to replace the ruler may have inadvertently bolstered his constitutional position.

The present ruler is reportedly uncomfortable with Umno's political style and has long advocated for respect for the law and constitution - reasons why Umno may have wanted to replace him. The allegations suggest political convenience over constitutional principle, making Umno's actions a miscalculation. The crisis highlights that political parties may win elections but do not own the constitution.

Umno must now take responsibility for resolving the situation, and if a resolution is to be reached, it must be a concession from Umno first.