Umno says Pakatan applying double standard on royal pardons, points to Anwar’s 2018 case

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 9 — The United Malays National Organisation (Umno) has criticised Pakatan Harapan (PH) for applying a double standard regarding royal pardons. Umno secretary-general Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki remarked that PH supported the full pardon given to Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim in 2018, despite him not having served the entirety of his five-year prison sentence.

Asyraf questioned why a different standard should not be applied to other individuals convicted in high-profile corruption cases. He argued that PH's stance appeared to challenge the Yang di-Pertuan Agong's prerogative to grant pardons, as stated in Article 42(1) of the Federal Constitution. Umno refrained from speculating about the Pardons Board's deliberations but emphasized that the final decision must be respected.

Asyraf also pointed out that PH had repeatedly criticized the Malay Rulers for political reasons, which he deemed inconsistent with the principles agreed upon during the formation of the unity government. Umno reiterated its commitment to defending the institution of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and the constitutional powers of His Majesty.

PH had previously stated that those convicted of corruption or abuse of power, especially in significant cases, must serve the entire sentence imposed by the courts, without specifically naming former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak or directly referencing the Pardons Board. This statement emerged as reports suggested the Federal Territories Pardons Board would consider Najib's clemency application during an upcoming meeting.