Saifuddin: Rule of law, good governance must guide Negri Sembilan administration

KUALA LUMPUR: The principles of the rule of law and good governance must be upheld to ensure all administrative actions are taken within the limits of legal powers and provisions, said Home Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail.

He said the recent suspension of Negri Sembilan state secretary Datuk Mohd Zafir Ibrahim and state legal adviser Datuk Muzalmah Mustapha Kamal highlighted the importance of ensuring that all administrative actions were based on a clear understanding of the relevant powers and legal provisions.

"The Constitutional and State Law Division of the Attorney-General's Chambers (A-GC) has affirmed that the Negri Sembilan state executive council (exco) has no legal authority to suspend the duties of the two senior officials.

"The legal basis is clear. Article 37 of the Laws of the Constitution of Negri Sembilan 1959 (UUTKNS) provides that matters concerning the appointment and suspension of these two key positions fall under the jurisdiction of the Public Services Commission and the Judicial and Legal Service Commission respectively," he said in a Facebook post tonight.

He said the legal clarification by the federal government through the A-GC reflected its commitment to upholding good governance, justice and the rule of law.

"No party can act unilaterally beyond the powers and constitutional provisions that have been established.

"In public administration, every power comes with limits and responsibilities. Respecting these limits is fundamental to strengthening institutions and maintaining confidence in our administrative system," he said.

Saifuddin said public officers entrusted with responsibilities must be protected from actions that do not follow the proper legal channels and processes.

"The rule of law is guaranteed. The country's administration remains stable, orderly and grounded in the Constitution and laws.

"The spirit of amanah is an important safeguard in ensuring the integrity of administrative institutions and the public service remains protected from any action taken without lawful authority.

"This is the foundation of a strong administration. Powers are exercised in accordance with the law, institutions are respected and the people's trust remains the priority," he said.

Earlier, media reported that the Negri Sembilan state executive council's special meeting on Tuesday unanimously decided to suspend Mohd Zafir and Muzalmah with immediate effect.

Menteri Besar Datuk Ismail Lasim said state financial officer Datuk Masri Razali had been named to perform the duties of the state secretary until a new appointment was made by the Chief Secretary to the Government.

However, Mohd Zafir continued performing his duties as usual after saying he had not received any official letter regarding the suspension. He also complied with the directive from Chief Secretary to the Government Tan Sri Shamsul Azri Abu Bakar to remain in service in Negri Sembilan.