Full Breakdown
Calls for Royal Pardon for Najib Razak Intensify
12/21/2025, 8:59:18 PM
Context of Najib Razak's Imprisonment
Former Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Abdul Razak has been serving a 12-year prison sentence since August 23, 2022, after being convicted of misappropriating RM42 million (approximately S$13.3 million) from SRC International Sdn Bhd. His conviction has been a significant point of contention in Malaysian politics, with ongoing discussions about his potential for a royal pardon.
Zahid Hamidi's Advocacy for Najib
Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, the Deputy Prime Minister and president of the United Malays National Organization (UMNO), has publicly expressed his hope for Najib's royal pardon. During the Malaysia Makkal Sakti Party's annual general assembly on December 21, 2025, Zahid emphasized that Najib has already served three years in prison and deserves serious consideration for a full pardon. He stated, “We have full confidence in His Majesty as a just ruler who is sympathetic to those who have gone through the legal process and served their sentence.” Zahid underscored the importance of allowing the King, who chairs the Federal Territories Pardons Board, to make the decision without external pressure.
Recent Developments and Legal Context
Zahid's remarks coincided with the Kuala Lumpur High Court's impending decision regarding Najib's application for a royal addendum, which could permit him to serve the remainder of his sentence under house arrest. Najib applied for a royal pardon on September 2, 2022, and in February 2024, the Pardons Board announced a reduction of his sentence from 12 years to six, along with a decrease in his fine from RM210 million to RM50 million. Under the Federal Constitution, the King has the authority to grant pardons based on the advice of the Pardons Board for offences committed within the Federal Territories.
Criticism and Opposition
While Zahid's advocacy reflects a strong support base for Najib within UMNO, there are dissenting voices regarding the former prime minister's pardon. Critics argue that granting a pardon could undermine the rule of law and set a concerning precedent for accountability among political leaders. The implications of such a decision are significant, as it could influence public trust in the judicial system and the government's commitment to anti-corruption measures.
Official Statements & Responses
Zahid reiterated his commitment to advocating for Najib, stating, “I will continue to do so until the end of my life. I sincerely hope and pray that Datuk Seri Najib will be granted a pardon in the near future.” His statements reflect a broader sentiment among some political factions in Malaysia that view Najib's imprisonment as politically motivated.
What's Next
As the situation develops, the decision from the Kuala Lumpur High Court regarding Najib's royal addendum is anticipated to have immediate implications for his incarceration status. The outcome will also likely influence ongoing discussions about his potential pardon and the broader political landscape in Malaysia.
