Negeri Sembilan PKR wants answers over assembly delay, royal dispute

Negeri Sembilan’s opposition party PKR has called for answers from the state’s chief minister, Ismail Lasim, regarding the postponement of the state assembly meeting and a dispute with the state ruler. Communications director Shariman Che Deris highlighted the questions raised over the government’s transparency, accountability, and conflict resolution.

The state assembly meeting, originally scheduled for yesterday, was postponed without prior notice to opposition assemblymen. Shariman questioned the reason given for the postponement, stating that the two-month window should have been enough for the chief minister and government assemblymen to prepare. He emphasized that the state assembly belongs to the people and is a democratic institution that must respect the mandate of elected representatives.

Shariman also urged Ismail to explain his interactions with the Negeri Sembilan ruler, Tuanku Muhriz. The confrontation between Tuanku Muhriz and Ismail, which took place after Friday prayers in Kuala Pilah, was triggered by Tuanku Muhriz’s rebuke of Ismail. This incident occurred amidst a constitutional crisis in the state, sparked in April when four individuals claimed to remove Tuanku Muhriz as ruler, proclaiming Tunku Nadzaruddin as the new Yang Dipertuan Besar.

Ismail endorsed a statement supporting the removal, but Tuanku Muhriz later revoked the appointments of the entire executive council. Shariman cited three matters needing clarification: a proclamation letter signed by Ismail on Aug 3; the chief minister’s rejection of the ruler’s decision to withdraw consent for the appointment of 10 exco members; and a letter to the Keeper of the Rulers’ Seal disputing Tuanku Muhriz’s status as the Yang Dipertuan Besar.

He stressed that his criticism aimed to ensure integrity and maintain public confidence in the state’s government.