PM Anwar Asks Everyone to Respect Pardons Board’s Decision to Reduce Najib’s Sentence

The nation was shocked yesterday when news of former prime minister Najib Razak would have his sentence reduced in half.

This has caused outrage on various social media platforms where Malaysians are saying that the former PM should serve his full sentence to pay for his crimes.

Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has said that all parties must respect the decision made by the Pardons Board in granting a reduction in the prison sentence and fine against Najib Razak in an interview with al-Jazeera.

He added that the decision was made by the then Yang di-Pertuan Agong, reported BERNAMA.

“I respect the decision of the then King. Now we have a new King. Whatever one feels, of course, it is very political, some support, some don’t. But they cannot ignore the fact that you must respect the rights of everyone convicted to appeal to the Pardons Board.”

The PM continued, saying, “Now the Pardons Board has made the decision. If one is satisfied then it’s fair; if not satisfied he or she still has the avenue to appeal at the later stage.“

The decision was made on 29 January at the 61st meeting of the Pardons Board for the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur, Labuan and Putrajaya.

With this, Najib’s jail sentence has been halved to 6 years and he will be released on 23 August 2028; his fine was also reduced from RM210 million to RM50 million.

Anwar also mentions that when making a decision, the King consults multiple parties beforehand such as the Attorney General, the Prime Minister and others.

“He is of course the bastion, and to uphold the constitution and the rule of law.”

He believes that the decision was made after taking all considerations into account.

Also read: Najib Razak’s Sentence Reduced From 12 to 6 Years Jail, RM210 Mil to RM50 Mil Fine