Anwar: Najib pardon decision guided by law, Constitution and due process

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim explained that his decision to postpone former Prime Minister Najib Razak's pardon petition was guided by the rule of law, constitutional principles, and official advice. He clarified that as the prime minister, he was obligated to base his views on the law, the Attorney General's guidance, and official rules.

Anwar reiterated that this decision was ultimately at the discretion of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong (Sultan Ibrahim), who must consider all relevant factors. He urged Malaysians to view the pardon issue based on law and governance, rather than personal feelings. Anwar emphasized that he had not taken a prejudiced or hateful stance and that he had considered the viewpoints of both political parties and the Umno party.

He stated that while he knew both easy and difficult paths, he chose the one he believed was right, adhering to principles of law and governance. The decision to defer Najib Razak's pardon petition was confirmed by the Sultan Ibrahim after the 63rd Pardons Board Meeting in September. Najib Razak was sentenced to 15 years in prison and fined RM11.4 billion in December 2022 for abuse of power and money laundering related to the 1MDB funds.