UMNO’s bid to secure a pardon for its former president Datuk Seri Najib Razak continues to be a bone of contention among members of the unity government, with Muda being the latest in line to express its objection.
The party’s central executive committee is adamant in its stand that the Pardons Board should reject the application to grant Najib a pardon, adding that it is the party’s official stand to object to any manouevres to save any kleptocratic individual.
Describing the former prime minister as a “kleptocrat” who made the country suffer, the party further noted that freeing him this early in his sentence will send the wrong message to Malaysians.
“Pardoning Najib just as he begins his sentence will send the message that anyone with influence over the powerful is above the law. This violates the principles of the Rukun Negara (which emphasis) the supremacy of laws,” said Muda.
It further questioned if common citizens who have been found guilty of the same crime would also be given the similar “privilege”.
“Muda will continue to fight against any movement that wants to save kleptocrats, including quarters that attempt to challenge the integrity of the country’s judiciary,” the party stressed.
The former prime minister began his 12-year prison sentence on Aug 23, 2022 for criminal breach of trust, money laundering and abuse of power over RM42 mil in SRC International Sdn Bhd funds which had ended up in his personal bank accounts. – May 1, 2023
Main pic credit: Utusan Malaysia
