Lawyer Tan Sri Muhammad Shafee Abdullah has revealed that his client, the former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak, is contemplating submitting another application for a full pardon. Despite the Pardons Board reducing Najib's prison sentence and fine, Shafee asserted that Najib remains adamant about not receiving a fair trial, especially after changing his legal team.
Shafee highlighted Najib's concerns regarding the consistency of the Pardons Board's decision-making process. While acknowledging the Yang di-Pertuan Agong's sole discretion in granting royal pardons, Shafee emphasized the need for clarity and consistency in the application of this prerogative. He expressed Najib's bewilderment at the discrepancies raised by the public regarding his case.
In response to criticisms questioning Najib's eligibility for a partial pardon, Shafee clarified that their application is not based on an admission of guilt but rather on the assertion of Najib's innocence and the lack of a fair trial and appeal process, particularly at the Federal Court level. He cited instances where Najib's legal team was not granted adequate time for preparation and where fundamental aspects of due process were allegedly disregarded.
Shafee also addressed criticisms from the Bar Council and academic opinions regarding Najib's entitlement to remission and the payment of fines. He argued against interpretations suggesting Najib's ineligibility for remission, citing precedents and legal practices. Additionally, he emphasized Najib's stance on the utilization of funds and his intention to appeal ongoing trials related to 1MDB funds.
Najib's reduced sentence, halved from 12 years to six years, and reduced fine, from RM210 million to RM50 million, by the Pardons Board have stirred public debate. The decision hinges on Najib's payment of the fine, with implications for his early release date. Despite ongoing legal battles, Najib's case underscores broader concerns about the transparency and fairness of the judicial process in high-profile cases.
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