Anwar: Najib has right to seek pardon, but wider impact must be considered

Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has defended ex-PM Najib Razak's right to seek a pardon, but emphasized the wider implications it could have on public trust and international perception. Anwar dismissed claims that he facilitated Najib's conditional pardon, stating that all prisoners have the right to appeal. At the Hi-Tea Reunion Perintis Reformis event in Shah Alam, Anwar affirmed that Najib could submit his appeal to the Pardons Board, chaired by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, who holds the final decision.

Anwar reminded the board that the ongoing legal proceedings, a hefty RM50 million fine, and the impact on public confidence and international standing should not be disregarded. The Federal Territories Pardons Board granted Najib a conditional pardon on Friday, requiring him to serve the remaining prison term under house arrest until August 23, 2028, conditional on the payment of the fine and compliance with other stipulations.