Two N Sembilan PN reps shift to 'neutral', cite stability

Two Perikatan Nasional assemblypersons in Negeri Sembilan said they are now taking a “neutral” position in the state’s political crisis.

This is a shift away from their initial efforts to form a new state government with BN - a plan that the latter has since abandoned after failing to secure an audience with the Yang di-Pertuan Besar.

In separate but similarly worded statements yesterday, both the state opposition leader, Hanifah Abu Baker, and Gemas assemblyperson Ridzuan Ahmad said their shift to neutrality was for the sake of stability.

They said the people’s well-being and the economy should take precedence, and that any change in government should only be done through elections.

Hanifah (above) - who is the Labu assemblyperson - said Umno’s inconsistent actions in the state are confusing the public, and appear to prioritise the party’s interests over other matters.

In a joint statement later today, the duo expressed their commitment to remaining in the opposition bloc.

“In this regard, we are determined to shoulder our responsibilities as a credible opposition to play an active role in carrying out checks and balances in the Negeri Sembilan state legislative assembly.

“We will also play a role in monitoring that each policy and implementation of development projects in Negeri Sembilan (to ensure it is) carried out transparently, with integrity, and prudently for the well-being of the people,” they said.

Previously, Hanifah had said that PN’s readiness to work with BN was also to ensure stability.

It is not clear whether the shift will mean that the Bersatu duo will be willing to help pass a budget tabled by Menteri Besar Aminuddin Harun’s minority government should a vote come further down the line.

Minority govt

On April 27, Negeri Sembilan BN announced that all 14 of its assemblypersons had withdrawn support for Aminuddin over the latter’s handling of a dispute between the state’s four ruling chieftains and the Yang di-Pertuan Besar.

Despite losing a majority in the state legislature, Aminuddin received royal consent to lead a minority government with 17 seats.

Since then, Umno’s central leadership has decided to continue supporting the state government.

Twelve out of 14 BN assemblypersons had reportedly expressed interest in remaining in the coalition government, with some lobbying for exco positions.

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