UMNO Central to Review Negeri Sembilan BN Lawmakers’ Move, Respects State-Level Decision
KUALA LUMPUR, April 27 — The central leadership of United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) has acknowledged the decision by 14 Barisan Nasional (BN) assemblymen in Negeri Sembilan to withdraw support for Menteri Besar Aminuddin Harun, while indicating that a comprehensive review will be carried out at the party’s highest level.
UMNO president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the party had been informed of both the plan and the eventual decision taken by the assemblymen, noting that it was a move initiated at the state level.
He stressed that while the central leadership respects the autonomy of the state leadership, the matter will be deliberated further by the Majlis Tertinggi UMNO to assess its broader political implications.
“The decision taken by the UMNO assemblymen in Negeri Sembilan is their own. However, the party leadership, together with BN, will examine the matter carefully and evaluate the potential political consequences arising from it,” he said after an exclusive interview session here.
Ahmad Zahid explained that the withdrawal of support was believed to be linked to remarks made by Aminuddin concerning the state’s adat (customary) institutions and constitutional framework.
“From what has been conveyed to me, the Menteri Besar’s statements touching on matters related to adat institutions and the state constitution may have prompted our assemblymen to take such action,” he said.
He added that a meeting with the BN assemblymen from Negeri Sembilan would be held in the near future to gain a clearer understanding of their position and the factors behind their decision.
The development has raised questions about its potential impact on political alignments, particularly UMNO’s cooperation with Pakatan Harapan (PH) at the federal level.
However, Ahmad Zahid said the party would adopt a measured approach, emphasising that all aspects would be reviewed before any conclusions are drawn.
“We will look at all dimensions of this matter, including its implications for our relationship with PH. At this stage, we are still evaluating the situation,” he said.
He also indicated that discussions between himself and Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim would be necessary to address the issue and ensure alignment at the national level.
Political analysts view the situation as a test of coalition dynamics, particularly given the delicate balance between state-level decisions and federal-level partnerships.
For now, UMNO’s central leadership appears to be taking a cautious stance, balancing respect for the decision made by its state representatives with the need to maintain broader political stability.
-wilayah.com.my
