When Political Power Challenges the Ruler
What is happening in Negeri Sembilan should concern every Malaysian. This is no longer simply a dispute over customary succession. It is a direct test of whether Malaysia’s Constitution and laws still mean what they say when powerful politicians are involved. Reports have linked UMNO President Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, UMNO Secretary-General Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki and Minister Azalina Othman Said to events surrounding the alleged pressure on Menteri Besar Ismail Lasim to sign a controversial proclamation. The proclamation was subsequently endorsed by the state EXCO and sought to remove Tuanku Muhriz and replace him with Tunku Nadzaruddin Tuanku Ja’afar . These are extremely serious allegations. The palace responded by revoking the appointments of ten EXCO members for allegedly breaching their oath of allegiance. Officials who refused to implement the contested proclamation were also reportedly suspended. So where is the law? Section 121B of the Penal Code deals with attempts to depose or dep...
