As the Pardons Board convenes on January 19 to determine the fate of former Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim faces a challenging dilemma between upholding Pakatan Harapan's (PH) aspirations and responding to pressure from UMNO to secure Najib's release. Fugitive blogger Raja Petra Kamarudin (RPK) warns Anwar that any reversal on his part to advocate for Najib's pardon could lead to public backlash, particularly from non-Malays still angered by Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi's discharge not amounting to acquittal (DNAA) in his Yayasan Akalbudi trial.
RPK emphasizes that the decision on Najib's pardon should be based solely on political grounds, cautioning Anwar that supporting Najib's release may be perceived as a betrayal of voters' trust, given the backdrop of the 1MDB scandal that contributed to Anwar's political rise. RPK contends that the current economic challenges, coupled with Najib's alleged misappropriation of taxpayers' money, make it a sensitive issue for the public.
The blogger, currently residing in the UK since 2009, highlights the potential risks for Anwar if he is seen as manipulating the justice system to free his associates. He suggests that Anwar's political standing could suffer if he chooses to prioritize Najib's release, and RPK speculates that the move might be perceived as Anwar saving his own neck.
RPK points out the delicate balance Anwar must navigate, considering the potential fallout if Najib's pardon alienates UMNO supporters within the PH-BN alliance, jeopardizing the unity government's two-thirds majority. The blogger underscores the critical decision Anwar faces, stating that it could be a last straw that breaks the camel's back.
In addition, RPK speculates on the potential outcomes of the Pardons Board's decision on Najib's appeal for clemency from the Yang di-Pertuan Agong. If rejected, Najib may have to wait another two years to submit a fresh application, while an early release recommendation could secure the Agong's consent, given Najib began serving his jail sentence in August 2022.
As the political landscape remains intricate, Anwar's decision on Najib's fate could have far-reaching implications for his political future and the unity government's stability.
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