Zahid: Understand Constitution before branding actions ‘treasonous’ or ‘disrespectful’
KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 26 — Disputes involving royal institutions and state administrations should be approached with an understanding of their constitutional roles before accusations of being “treasonous” or “disrespectful” are made, Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said today.
Ahmad Zahid said the position and responsibilities of each institution, as well as the Federal Constitution and respective state constitutions, must first be understood when such disputes arise, Berita Harian reported.
He said this included the rights of all citizens as guaranteed under the Constitution.
“Do not let labels such as ‘treasonous’ and ‘disrespectful’ come before an understanding of the actual circumstances,” he said.
“The primary duty of leadership is to clear up confusion through knowledge and wisdom while safeguarding the dignity of institutions.”
Ahmad Zahid, who is also Barisan Nasional chairman and Umno president, made the remarks amid an ongoing constitutional dispute in Negeri Sembilan involving the state administration and the royal institution.
The controversy has prompted debate over the respective powers and responsibilities of the Yang di-Pertuan Besar, the menteri besar and the state executive council under the Negeri Sembilan State Constitution.
The dispute intensified after questions arose over decisions involving the position of Yang di-Pertuan Besar Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir and the authority of the state administration.
The Attorney General’s Chambers has since weighed in on several legal issues arising from the dispute, while Tuanku Muhriz revoked the appointments of the state executive councillors effective September 20 under the state constitution.
Ahmad Zahid has previously said the dispute should be resolved through Negeri Sembilan’s customary institutions and existing constitutional framework, while stressing that Umno would not interfere in the matter.
He was speaking while officiating the Musyawarah Nasional: Membongkar Polemik Tanah Melayu at the Melaka International Trade Centre in Ayer Keroh, Melaka.
