Najib’s House Arrest: Anwar Stresses Respect for Pardons Board’s Jurisdiction

SHAH ALAM: Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim stressed that every prisoner has the right to apply for a pardon, but the decision does not rest with the government.

He said the matter must be viewed based on constitutional principles, including in relation to former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, who had previously received a sentence reduction from the Pardons Board.

Anwar said he continued to respect that right, while at the same time taking into account Najib’s cases that are still ongoing in court.

“I will continue to defend that right. Anyone, including Datuk Seri Najib, has the right to apply for a pardon for consideration by the Pardons Board.

“The Pardons Board must assess the application. At the federal level, there is advice from the Prime Minister and advice from the Attorney General, and that advice should be considered.

“But as for the decision itself, can we make it? Does my advice determine the decision? No,” he said during his speech at the Reformist Pioneers Reunion Hi-Tea on Sunday.

Anwar also stressed that the government must continue to uphold constitutional principles in dealing with the issue, including ensuring that there is no interference in the legal process.

He said ongoing cases related to 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB), as well as other cases still before the courts, should not be obstructed.

“The 1MDB case is still ongoing. The civil cases are also continuing. It does not prevent them from proceeding.

“I provide advice to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, but I am also the Prime Minister and must abide by the principles of the Constitution, which set out the process in this manner,” he said.

At the same time, Anwar reiterated the government’s commitment to continue fighting corruption and ensuring that the principles of justice and integrity are upheld regardless of who is involved.

Sinar Harian