G25 urges Negeri Sembilan MB to resign

The G25, a coalition of retired civil servants, has called upon Negeri Sembilan's Chief Minister, Ismail Lasim, to step down from his position due to his involvement in efforts to remove Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir from the role of Yang Dipertuan Besar. Ismail Lasim, a seven-term Umno assemblyman, took office as Chief Minister on August 2, but signed a proclamation seeking Tuanku Muhriz's removal the following day, leading to conflicting explanations and a loss of credibility.

His indecisiveness and inability to clarify who influenced him to sign the proclamation, which he later deemed invalid, further undermined his moral authority to govern. The G25 argued that attempting to remove a ruler constitutes treason, a serious offense under Section 121B of the Penal Code, and urged authorities to take strong action against those involved in treason or sedition.

They emphasized the importance of upholding the integrity of the federal and state constitutions and the rule of law, warning of potential societal collapse if these principles are disregarded. Ismail had initially claimed he signed the proclamation under duress and filed a police report, stating its invalidity due to non-compliance with Negeri Sembilan's constitution.

However, he later endorsed a statement by his 10 executive council members supporting Tuanku Muhriz's removal, prompting the Attorney-General’s Chambers to assert that the Chief Minister and his cabinet lacked the authority to remove the Yang Dipertuan Besar or declare his position vacant. Tuanku Muhriz subsequently rescinded the appointments of the 10 exco members.