Zahid confident Negri Sembilan political impasse will be resolved soon

Negri Sembilan's political and administrative stalemate is anticipated to be resolved soon through ongoing talks involving the key stakeholders, according to Deputy Prime Minister and Umno president Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. The efforts are being made to strike a balance between the interests of the people and the pending state budget, which is set to be presented soon.

Zahid hinted at the possibility of central Umno leadership, Negri Sembilan Umno leadership, and the menteri besar being involved in the resolution process. The priority remains ensuring uninterrupted services to the people, especially with the budget looming. Zahid expressed confidence that the budget could be tabled this month, contingent on the ongoing discussions to resolve the impasse.

He also expressed hope that the state legislative assembly sitting would proceed as scheduled and the budget be approved without any hitches, to ensure the efficient running of the state administration. This includes cooperation from the state secretary, legal adviser, financial officer, district officers, and sub-district officials.

The constitutional and administrative crisis in Negri Sembilan, a state steeped in Minangkabau monarchy traditions, started in April, with the impasse nearing a critical juncture. The Negri Sembilan State Legislative Assembly has not convened since the August state elections, amidst the ongoing dispute involving the state's royal institution.