Anwar asks Loke to review decision to quit Cabinet after Najib’s conditional pardon

On September 23, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim implored Transport Minister Anthony Loke to reconsider his decision to vacate his Cabinet position following the Pardons Board's granting of a conditional pardon to former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak. In a New Straits Times report, Anwar emphasized the DAP's refusal to capitulate to political factions aiming to destabilize the unity government.

He stated that Loke had not advocated for the pardon nor attempted to oppose it, and called for the DAP to resist pressure from vested interests desiring governmental instability. Anwar promised to convene with Loke to discuss his rationale and urged the minister to retract his resignation. He acknowledged the challenges faced by the DAP and Pakatan Harapan in defending the Pardons Board's decision, given their long-standing opposition to kleptocracy and corruption.

Anwar affirmed his respect for Loke's decision, noting that the minister felt it was difficult to defend the Pardons Board's stance, as the DAP and Pakatan Harapan have consistently held a firm position on the matter. The government's perspective, including Attorney General Tan Sri Mohd Dusuki Mokhtar's stance during the Pardons Board meeting, was communicated to His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, the King of Malaysia.

Anwar cautioned all parties that executive power is subject to constitutional constraints, with the final authority for pardons residing with the King. He denounced politicians alleging a compromise or covert agreement between him and Umno leaders regarding the pardon. Anwar stressed the government's commitment to preserving political stability, nurturing goodwill with Malay rulers, and responsibly steering Malaysia's economic trajectory.

He also encouraged Malaysians of diverse backgrounds to demonstrate loyalty to the nation through the concept of "Wangyue," signifying dedication to the country.