PKR Women’s Chief Fadhlina Says Najib’s Conditional Pardon Should Not Be Linked to Anwar or PH

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 18 — The conditional pardon granted to former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak should not be portrayed as a decision made by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim or Pakatan Harapan (PH), PKR Women’s Chief Datuk Seri Fadhlina Sidek said today.

Fadhlina, who is also Education Minister, stressed that granting pardons falls strictly within the constitutional authority of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong as provided under the Federal Constitution.

In a Facebook post, she urged all political observers and the public to adhere strictly to constitutional facts rather than drawing unfounded political connections.

“We must be honest with the facts. A pardon is the prerogative of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong, as provided by the Federal Constitution,” Fadhlina said. “PKR Women respects the decision and upholds the institution of Constitutional Monarchy. Political differences should not obscure the constitutional position or depict this decision as if it were made by the Prime Minister or Pakatan Harapan.”

Acknowledging the public discourse following the announcement, Fadhlina noted that the decision has naturally evoked strong emotional reactions, including disappointment and anger among certain segments of the public.

She emphasized that acknowledging these public sentiments is necessary and affirmed that respecting the royal decree does not mean PKR has compromised its foundational stance against corruption and official misconduct.

“We should not pretend that those feelings do not exist,” Fadhlina added. “The public has the right to voice their opinions and seek clarification, and the government maintains a responsibility to provide clear explanations to the rakyat.”

The statement follows the announcement that His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, granted Najib a conditional pardon permitting him to serve the remainder of his sentence under house arrest until Aug 23, 2028, subject to paying a RM50 million fine. The Legal Affairs Division (BHEUU) of the Prime Minister’s Department confirmed that the order was finalized during the 64th meeting of the Federal Territories Pardons Board at Istana Negara.

–NMT