PETALING JAYA: All 14 assemblymen from Barisan Nasional in Negri Sembilan have agreed to continue supporting the state unity government to ensure political stability, says Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi (pic).
The Barisan chairman said the decision was reached following a discussion held during his meeting with the lawmakers yesterday.
He said the meeting allowed all parties to explain the true context behind their move to withdraw support, which has since drawn various political interpretations.
“Yes, they withdrew support but we are still with the unity government in Negri Sembilan,” he told reporters at an event yesterday.
Ahmad Zahid said the assemblymen had decided to withdraw support for the Mentri Besar to ensure the royal institution and customs in Negri Sembilan continue to be respected and upheld.
“I have held discussions with all of them to review the matter, and (they) have no intention to retract.
“Rather, it is to correct the perception that their efforts were not aimed at toppling the government or forming a back door, but to ensure that the institutions mentioned are functioning properly,” Ahmad Zahid said, Sinar Harian reported.
He said Umno at the national level respects the views of the assemblymen, but all of them have ultimately agreed to continue supporting the unity government to avoid disruption and in the interest of the people.
Ahmad Zahid said all parties must remain united not only to resolve issues but to continue supporting what the Prime Minister has envisioned, as the country navigates through global economic challenges.
The 14 Barisan assemblymen withdrew their support due to what they claimed was failure on the Mentri Besar’s part to handle the royal crisis until it became a public debate.
This they claimed had brought disrepute to the royal institution as well as the state government.
Meanwhile, the Negri Sembilan government remains stable despite the withdrawal of support from the assemblymen, said Transport Minister Anthony Loke.
Loke, who is DAP secretary-general said that Ahmad Zahid himself had conveyed in Cabinet that he does not agree to any attempt to form a new government.
He said while the assemblymen had declared a loss of confidence in Aminuddin, Umno leadership has not endorsed the formation of a new government and continues to support the administration.
“I see the situation as still stable ... the existing government remains,” he told reporters after attending an event.
