‘Negeri Sembilan crisis is not DAP’s fault’, says Anthony Loke

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 11 — DAP has firmly stated that they bear no responsibility for the ongoing political turmoil in Negeri Sembilan. Anthony Loke Siew Fook, the DAP secretary-general, emphasized that it is unjust to continue attributing the crisis to their party, given that they are no longer part of the state government. During the Negeri Sembilan state election campaign, the DAP was falsely accused of playing a role in the state's crisis, a claim Loke refuted.

He told reporters at the 24th DAP Negeri Sembilan annual convention that the party has been out of the government since the state election, and therefore, it cannot be blamed for the present situation. Loke also mentioned that the crisis's complexity stems from multiple factors, including the position of the Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan.

The situation is further complicated by Menteri Besar Datuk Ismail Lasim's unwillingness to submit a new list of state executive councillors as requested by the Yang di-Pertuan Besar. Loke pointed out that there is no valid reason for the BN (Barisan Nasional) government to continue governing without a proper council, as they have been asked to submit the names of new executive councillors by Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir.

However, Loke noted that it is uncommon for a state government to function with only a menteri besar. He further explained that this situation will undoubtedly hinder the smooth functioning of state administration, as numerous decisions and administrative tasks require approval from the State Executive Council. Regarding BN's political strategies, Loke stated that such actions are within their purview, given their majority in the state legislative assembly.

However, DAP has never been involved in a vote of no confidence against the menteri besar. Loke concluded by reminding their elected representatives to concentrate on their duties and expressed uncertainty about the crisis's duration but assured that DAP is ready for any eventuality.