'We act professionally': Zahid says Najib pardon won't split Unity Government

Jakarta: Deputy Prime Minister Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi stated that relations among the parties in the Unity Government remain stable following the Pardons Board's decision regarding former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak. Dr Zahid, who also serves as Umno president, emphasized that all parties continue to maintain a professional approach in managing government affairs, with collective decision-making by the Cabinet.

He affirmed that personal relationships among members of the Unity Government are currently good and that they will continue to uphold the principles of discipline while in power. Yesterday, His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim granted Najib a conditional pardon, allowing him to serve the remaining portion of his sentence under house arrest until August 23, 2028, subject to a RM50 million fine.

The Legal Affairs Division of the Prime Minister's Department confirmed that 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. Dr Zahid, also BN chairman, noted that the Pardons Board's decision, approved by His Majesty, is subject to the provisions of the Federal Constitution.

He reiterated that if any party challenges the King's decision, it would be inconsistent with constitutional provisions. UMNO and BN maintain the view that laws must be obeyed, as reflected in Dr Zahid's earlier statements.