Accra:Negeri Sembilan The Malaysian Bar has emphasized that any attempt to remove the Negeri Sembilan ruler, Tuanku Muhriz Tuanku Munawir, must adhere to constitutional procedures. This follows a purported proclamation dated April 19, 2026, intended to remove the ruler, which was rejected by the Attorney General's Chambers (AGC) for failing to meet constitutional requirements.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Anand Raj, president of the Malaysian Bar, stated that Article X(1) of the State Constitution requires a full inquiry by the Undangs before they can ask the ruler to withdraw from his functions or abdicate. He highlighted the necessity for compliance with constitutional and natural justice principles in any 'due enquiry' under the 1959 State Constitution of Negeri Sembilan.

Anand pointed out that no record shows any inquiry was held or that the ruler was given a chance to respond to the allegations. He stressed the fundamental principle of natural justice, which mandates that anyone accused of wrongdoing should know the case against them and have the opportunity to respond before any adverse decision.

He referenced the Privy Council decision in B Surinder Singh Kanda v The Government of the Federation of Malaya [1962] to underline that this principle applies to everyone, including the head of state. He noted that failing to comply with Article X(1) renders any action to remove Tuanku Muhriz invalid and that such decisions could be overturned by the courts.

Anand also raised questions about the crisis's handling, noting the current Menteri Besar's announcement on September 16 about the ruler's removal based on the proclamation, despite it being previously declared invalid. He mentioned that the Menteri Besar claimed to have signed the proclamation under duress, as per a police report filed on September 8.

The Malaysian Bar has called for transparency regarding the circumstances and motivations behind the proclamation and the delayed police report. Additionally, Anand questioned the legitimacy of the state government's operations after Tuanku Muhriz revoked all state Exco members' appointments.

The Bar further highlighted an October 14 statement by the Malay Rulers, advocating for resolving differences in accordance with custom, law, and the State Constitution's provisions.