In a recent address during the monthly assembly at the Prime Minister's Department, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim provided clarification on the swift consideration of Najib Razak's royal pardon application by the Federal Territories Pardons Board. Anwar emphasized that the process is open to anyone who has committed an offense and follows a prescribed procedure.
Dispelling notions that a convict must serve a minimum of three years before a pardon application can be entertained, Anwar asserted, "Anyone (who has been convicted of an offense) can submit an initial application in line with the given process." He acknowledged his role in ensuring the prompt hearing of Najib's application, asserting responsibility for the decision.
Responding to queries about the expeditious handling of Najib's case, Anwar clarified that his commitment is to give swift attention to all received pardon applications. Umno Supreme Council member Lokman Adam acknowledged Anwar's role in expediting the hearing and expressed gratitude on behalf of the party for the commutation of Najib's sentence and fine.
The Pardons Board, on the previous Friday, announced a reduction in Najib's prison sentence in the SRC International case from 12 years to six. Additionally, his fine was decreased from RM210 million to RM50 million, with an additional year added to the sentence if the amount is not paid.
Addressing the assembly, Anwar acknowledged the controversy surrounding the outcome of Najib's pardon application, stating that it has generated strong opinions across various sectors. He hoped that his explanation would ease tensions and shed light on the decision-making process.
Anwar urged all parties to refrain from demanding explanations from the Pardons Board, emphasizing that the final decision rested with the former Yang di-Pertuan Agong (Al-Sultan Abdullah Sultan Ahmad Shah). He highlighted that while board members provided their perspectives, the ultimate decision was made by the former King.
"The decision by the (former) Yang di-Pertuan Agong is final and is based on various considerations, not just the law," Anwar stated. He called for respect for the constitutional authority granted to the former King since the country's independence, emphasizing that it is within His Majesty's prerogative to decide whether to offer an explanation or not.
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