Anwar Denies Paving Way for Najib’s Pardon, Reaffirms Constitutional Prerogative of King and Pardons Board

SHAH ALAM, Sept 20 — Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has rejected claims that he facilitated the conditional pardon granted to former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, maintaining that every convicted individual holds the constitutional right to submit an appeal to the Pardons Board.

Speaking at the Perintis Reformis Reunion Hi-Tea event at the Selangor International Trade Centre (SITC) today, Anwar clarified that the jurisdiction to evaluate pardon applications lies strictly within the Pardons Board, which takes into account legal advice from the Prime Minister and the Attorney-General, while the final decision rests solely with the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.

“I stated that every prisoner has the right to submit an appeal, and I defend that right for anyone, including Datuk Seri Najib. He has the right to submit his appeal for consideration by the Pardons Board chaired by the King,” Anwar said. “There are discordant voices from our former allies claiming this is Pakatan Harapan’s doing… As Prime Minister, I do not want to use harsh words; people can criticise me, but it is untrue… Claiming that I paved the way is incorrect.”

Anwar reiterated that the authority to grant clemency or confer honours remains the exclusive constitutional discretion of the Malay Rulers in their respective states and the Yang di-Pertuan Agong at the federal level. He explained that his previous remarks regarding the matter were not aimed at influencing any outcome, but reflected considerations surrounding ongoing court proceedings, the substantial fines involved, and the broader impact on public confidence and international perceptions of Malaysia’s justice system.

The Prime Minister emphasized that the conditional pardon does not impact or stall other active judicial proceedings involving Najib, including civil actions and remaining criminal charges linked to the 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) scandal. Reaffirming the MADANI administration’s anti-corruption agenda, Anwar assured that cases involving systemic abuse of power will continue to be thoroughly investigated and processed through the legal system.

Turning to constitutional governance, Anwar declared that the Federal Government will fully deploy its machinery to defend the constitutional monarchy against political attacks or attempts to undermine the institution. He criticized opposing political factions for contradicting their electoral promises by questioning or rejecting royal authority after taking power, underscoring that any disputes concerning the monarchy must be resolved strictly in accordance with the Federal Constitution and established law.

The remarks follow Friday’s announcement by the Prime Minister’s Department’s Legal Affairs Division (BHEUU) confirming that His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, King of Malaysia, consented to grant Najib a conditional pardon during the 64th Federal Territories Pardons Board meeting. Under the order, the former prime minister is allowed to serve the remainder of his sentence under house arrest until Aug 23, 2028, subject to the payment of an RM50 million fine and other set conditions.

–NMT