UMNO denies betrayal claims in Negeri Sembilan political crisis

UMNO President Ahmad Zahid Hamidi has refuted claims of betrayal that allegedly triggered political turmoil in Negeri Sembilan, leading to the dissolution of the state assembly and a snap election. He asserted that UMNO Negeri Sembilan's support for Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun was conditional, lasting only until the end of the current term.

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There was no betrayal on the part of UMNO Negeri Sembilan because the support given to the Menteri Besar, Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun, was only until the end of the term.

"There was no betrayal on the part of UMNO Negeri Sembilan because the support given to the Menteri Besar, Datuk Seri Aminuddin Harun, was only until the end of the term," Zahid told reporters. He explained that once the state assembly was dissolved on June 5, UMNO decided to "go solo" in the upcoming state polls.

Zahid emphasized that political coalitions operate with a defined direction, and actions taken upon the conclusion of a state or national term do not constitute betrayal. "I don't think there was any betrayal committed when a term of administration at the state or national level has ended," he said. He added that UMNO's leadership is focused on finding the best strategies to strengthen the party's position in state legislative assemblies and Parliament.

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I don't think there was any betrayal committed when a term of administration at the state or national level has ended.

His remarks come after Aminuddin urged voters in Negeri Sembilan to punish UMNO in the upcoming state election on August 1, accusing the party of betrayal. Aminuddin called for an 80% voter turnout, stating, "This is our chance. This is our time. Show them. Teach them. Ensure that the people today are able to punish them. Those who can punish are the voters."

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This is our chance. This is our time. Show them. Teach them. Ensure that the people today are able to punish them. Those who can punish are the voters.

Regarding the Election Commission's decision to hold separate elections in Johor and Negeri Sembilan, Zahid stated that the EC's authority to set election dates is absolute and should not be challenged by any party, especially cabinet ministers. "That is the right and power vested in the EC, and no individual, let alone if one holds the position of a cabinet minister, should have such personal opinions," he said.

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That is the right and power vested in the EC, and no individual, let alone if one holds the position of a cabinet minister, should have such personal opinions.