KUALA LUMPUR — In a clear statement of principle, the ruling Pakatan Harapan coalition said on Wednesday that anyone convicted of corruption or abuse of power must serve the full sentence set by the courts. The declaration comes as media reports indicate a royal pardon board, chaired by King Sultan Ibrahim, is scheduled to meet on Friday and may consider a clemency request from former prime minister Najib Razak.
Coalition’s stance on rule of law
The coalition’s statement emphasized that the rule of law requires the judicial process to proceed without any perception of political interference. “The principle of the rule of law also demands that the ongoing judicial process be given the space to be completed in an orderly and independent manner,” the statement read, adding that no specific mention of Najib or the pending board meeting was made.
Background on Najib’s convictions
Najib Razak has been incarcerated since 2022 after being found guilty in two separate corruption cases tied to the 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) scandal, a multi‑billion‑dollar misuse of state funds. He has repeatedly denied wrongdoing. In 2024, a previous pardons board chaired by the former king reduced his original 12‑year sentence and fines, allowing him to serve part of his term under house arrest, a request that ultimately failed.
In December 2025, Najib received an additional 15‑year prison term in the largest trial related to the 1MDB scandal.
Potential political risk for Prime Minister Anwar
Party insiders note that a fresh pardon could pose political risks for Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who has faced criticism from reform‑oriented allies for appearing soft on high‑level corruption, especially involving members of Najib’s United Malays National Organisation (UMNO). Pakatan Harapan formed a government in 2022 by joining forces with UMNO after a hung parliament, and internal disagreements over Najib’s treatment have persisted.
Some UMNO legislators continue to advocate for Najib’s release, creating a delicate balance for the coalition as it seeks to maintain credibility on anti‑corruption commitments while managing coalition unity.
Looking ahead
Although Malaysia’s next general election is not scheduled until early 2028, Prime Minister Anwar has hinted that a snap election could be called if internal divisions deepen. The coalition’s firm stance on full sentences for corruption convicts signals an effort to reinforce Malaysia’s international reputation after previous graft scandals damaged confidence in its institutions.
Both the Sin Chew Daily and Free Malaysia Today reported the upcoming pardons board meeting, citing unnamed sources. A palace official, as well as Najib’s lawyer and aide, did not respond to Reuters’ requests for comment.
Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
