PM says king’s discretion explains delay of Najib’s pardon request

During a press conference in Kozhikode, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim explained that the postponement of former prime minister Najib Razak’s pardon application to the next Federal Territories Pardons Board meeting is within the Yang di-Pertuan Agong’s constitutional discretion. He said his role is to provide legal advice, while the king must weigh all relevant factors at the board’s meeting. The board, chaired by the monarch, is set to consider Najib’s second pardon request following his convictions for SRC International misappropriation and a later 1MDB-related abuse of power case.

Anwar answered criticism from PAS secretary-general Takiyuddin Hassan, urging the party to understand the board’s rules and noting that many other corruption cases are being dealt with promptly. He also referenced the king’s call for stricter oversight of institutions such as Tabung Haji and Felda, acknowledging political pressure from Umno but affirming his stance is guided by the rule of law and the Federal Constitution.