All 14 Umno state assemblymen in Negeri Sembilan remain in support of the state unity government, according to party president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
The Deputy Prime Minister clarified the situation after holding discussions with the representatives today following their recent decision to withdraw support for Menteri Besar Aminuddin Harun.
Ahmad Zahid emphasized that the assemblymen have no intention of seizing control of the state administration or establishing a new government through undemocratic channels.
He noted that the meeting was necessary to address differing perceptions and interpretations regarding the original intent of the 14 representatives.
The party president stated that the move was not about retracting support for the administration itself, but rather a well-meaning effort to ensure that the royal institution and the unique customs of Negeri Sembilan are respected and upheld by all parties.
Customary crisis and leadership
The friction began on Monday when the 14 assemblymen formally retracted their support for Aminuddin.
They cited a loss of confidence in the leadership of the PKR vice-president, specifically regarding his management of a crisis involving the state royal institution and traditional customary practices, known as adat.
This leadership dispute is closely linked to an ongoing crisis where four chieftains have sought to remove Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir as the Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan.
The assemblymen believe these traditional frameworks require firmer protection within the state’s political structure.
In response to the rift, Negeri Sembilan Perikatan Nasional had indicated that its five assemblymen were prepared to collaborate with Barisan Nasional to ensure continuity in the state government.
Such a move would have provided Barisan Nasional with a simple majority of 19 seats in the 36-seat assembly.
Maintaining the status quo
Despite the offer from the opposition, the Umno leadership has signaled a preference for the existing coalition. Secretary-general Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki reaffirmed last night that the party would continue to back the unity government in Negeri Sembilan to guarantee political stability and safeguard the well-being of the people.
Aminuddin, who serves as the Sikamat assemblyman, began his second term as menteri besar in August 2023.
His administration was formed following the last state election where Pakatan Harapan secured 17 seats, Barisan Nasional won 14, and Perikatan Nasional took five.
The clarification by Ahmad Zahid aims to settle the political uncertainty in the state, ensuring that the administration remains functional while addressing the underlying concerns regarding Negeri Sembilan’s traditional and constitutional framework.
