Umno signals stability in N Sembilan, respects rebel reps, backs state govt

 

The Umno leadership is appealing to both its assemblypersons in Negeri Sembilan and the coalition government.

While seemingly playing it safe, Umno’s statement last night appeared to indicate that the party will not push for snap polls in the state - at least for now.

“Umno takes the position of respecting BN state assemblypersons who maintain they have lost confidence in the menteri besar.

“However, we continue to support the Negeri Sembilan coalition government to ensure stability and well-being for the people,” said Umno secretary-general Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki in a statement last night.

In addition, the party is seeking a meeting with Pakatan Harapan’s political bureau to iron out issues, in line with the coalition government agreement that requires disputes to be resolved by a consultative committee.

The statement was issued after Umno’s political bureau met in Kuala Lumpur last night.

Among those who attended the meeting were Umno deputy president Mohamad Hasan and Negeri Sembilan Umno chief Jalaluddin Alias - the Rantau and Pertang assemblypersons.

Both were among the 14 BN assemblypersons who withdrew support for Menteri Besar Aminuddin Harun on Monday, over the latter’s handling of the royal crisis in the state.

Stalemate

The state’s four ruling chieftains - the Undang Yang Empat - had moved to oust Yang di-Pertuan Besar Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir in a tit-for-tat after the Sungai Ujong undang, Mubarak Thahak, was himself removed. Mubarak and the other undangs have disputed his removal.

The Undang Yang Empat

Aminuddin has withheld support for the undangs’ decree to remove Tuanku Muhriz from the throne, leading to prolonged tensions between the two state powers.

Following BN’s withdrawal of support, Aminuddin secured support from the ruler to head a minority government, even though BN initially planned to take over the state administration with support from Perikatan Nasional.

However, BN appears to have abandoned its plans.

Asyraf said Umno viewed the royal crisis seriously and reiterated the party’s position in upholding the royal institution. - Mkini