Zahid says Najib's pardon could give UMNO a lift before Melaka polls
UMNO president Zahid Hamidi said the conditional pardon granted to Najib may provide the party with added momentum ahead of the Melaka state election.
During a press briefing after the Halal 20 summit, Zahid Hamidi said the conditional pardon given to Najib by Sultan Ibrahim might act as a boost for UMNO in one outlet political climate. The pardon, decided by the Board of Pardons for Kuala Lumpur, Labuan and Putrajaya, requires Najib to pay a RM50 million fine and remain under house arrest. Zahid noted that this could add political value as the party prepares for the Melaka state election.
He has tasked BN Melaka chairman Ab Rauf Yusoh with opening discussions with any willing political alliances and with drafting a candidate roster that reflects strong performance by incumbent assembly members. Zahid recalled that in the 2021 Melaka election BN secured 21 of 28 seats, while PH won five and PN two.
Why it matters
The pardon could reshape UMNO's strategy and influence the outcome of a key state election in Malaysia.
How this story developed
- Sep 10 Umno eyes strategic allies and centrist appeal ahead of Malaysia’s GE16
- Sep 15 PAS deputy president rejected UMNO’s call for a snap Terengganu election and called for a national poll.
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