SEREMBAN — Former Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun has called on current Mentri Besar Datuk Ismail Lasim to provide a clear explanation regarding his decision to sign a proclamation document on August 3 that sought the removal of Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir as the Yang di-Pertuan Besar of Negeri Sembilan, and subsequently report that he was coerced into signing it.

Aminuddin, who served as mentri besar from 2018 until earlier this year, emphasized the need for transparency and accountability on Ismail’s part. He urged Ismail not to attribute the controversy solely to the preceding state government, describing such a stance as an attempt to evade responsibility.

“The question cannot be answered simply by blaming the previous government,” Aminuddin said in a Facebook post. “There is no loss in being an honest leader. There is no shame in defending the truth.”

He revealed that when presented with the same proclamation document on April 19, 2026, he had refused to sign it due to concerns about the legitimacy and procedural validity surrounding the proposed removal of Tuanku Muhriz and recognition of Tunku Nadzaruddin Tuanku Ja’afar as his successor.

“My decision was rooted in questions about the process itself—whether it was complete or flawed from the outset,” Aminuddin explained. He cited Article 10 of the state’s constitution, which governs not only the powers related to the Yang di-Pertuan Besar’s position but also outlines the necessary procedures, including a comprehensive inquiry.

Aminuddin stressed that all actions taken during his tenure could be evaluated against existing records, documents, and timelines. He challenged any claims implicating his administration in the crisis to specify the allegedly violated provisions and the timing of such breaches.

The former mentri besar also pointed to disputes over the legitimacy of one of the involved Undangs, the traditional leaders whose consent is integral in such matters, specifically the Undang of Sungei Ujong.

“In circumstances where such questions were unresolved, I took legal advice and decided not to sign a document with such profound consequences for the Royal institution,” he said. “This stance remains unchanged, and I do not accept the characterization that I was coerced.”

Referring to a September 17 statement from the Attorney General’s Chambers (AGC), Aminuddin noted that the AGC had declared the April 19 proclamation invalid, citing non-compliance with Article 10’s requirements. The AGC further maintained that the Mentri Besar and the state executive council lack unilateral authority to declare the Yang di-Pertuan Besar’s office vacant.

Aminuddin expressed his support for the AGC’s position and his readiness to take responsibility for decisions made during his administration. He invited scrutiny of his tenure, offering to respond to any questions supported by appropriate documentation.

The matter remains a significant point of contention amid ongoing disputes concerning the state’s constitutional and royal institutions. No further comments have been made by Ismail Lasim or the current administration since Aminuddin’s statements.