Najib’s conditional pardon has not strained unity government, says DPM Zahid

JAKARTA, Sept 19 — The unity government's relations among its parties have remained strong despite the Pardons Board's decision on former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak, stated Deputy Prime Minister and Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi. According to Ahmad Zahid, the Cabinet's collective decision-making ensures that all parties maintain a professional approach in managing government affairs.

He expressed his gratitude for the good personal relations thus far, emphasizing the unity government's commitment to discipline as long as they remain in power. The Sultan of Malaysia granted Najib a conditional pardon on September 18, allowing him to serve his sentence under house arrest until August 23, 2028, provided he pays a RM50 million fine.

The decision was made at the 64th Meeting of the Pardons Board for the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur, Labuan, and Putrajaya at Istana Negara. Ahmad Zahid, who is also the BN chairman, affirmed that the pardon, endorsed by the King, adheres to the Federal Constitution and constitutional clauses. He reiterated that if any party challenges the King's decision, it would contradict constitutional provisions. Umno and BN maintain that the law should be obeyed, a stance he has previously emphasized.