AG’s views must be considered in Najib’s 2nd pardon bid, says ex-AG

Former Attorney-General Abu Talib Othman has emphasized that the Federal Territories Pardons Board (FTPB) must take into account the AG's written opinion when reviewing former Prime Minister Najib Razak's second pardon application. Abu Talib, who served as the country's top legal officer from 1980 to 1993, stated that the word "shall" in Article 42(9) of the Federal Constitution makes it obligatory for the FTPB to consider the AG's opinion.

He further noted that every member of the board would receive the written opinion before the meeting, and additional opinions could be provided by other board members as well. Federal Territories Minister Hannah Yeoh confirmed that the FTPB would convene the following day to discuss Najib's second pardon application, which was reduced from 12 years to six years in prison and a fine of RM210 million to six years and RM50 million in February 2024.

However, it remains uncertain whether the meeting will lead to a decision or if the board will simply deliberate on the matter. There is also speculation that Najib might be allowed to serve the remainder of his sentence under house arrest, though the possibility of this option being considered at the meeting is yet to be determined.