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Former Malaysian PM Najib Razak Seeks Royal Pardon, Potentially Shaking Up Political Landscape

The decision by the Pardons Board could destabilize Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim's unity government and challenge the leadership of UMNO president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.

Overview

  • Former Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak, currently serving a 12-year jail sentence for corruption, has applied for a royal pardon which could significantly impact the country's political landscape.
  • Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, a member of the Pardons Board, could face criticism and be perceived as back-pedalling on his anti-corruption drive if the pardon is granted.
  • Najib's potential return to politics could destabilize Anwar's unity government and challenge the leadership of United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
  • Najib's political comeback could be facilitated by his strong support base in his home state of Pahang and the recent election of his two sons in UMNO party polls.
  • The Pardons Board could also decide to commute Najib's sentence, limiting his political influence, or postpone the decision until the new King is installed on January 31, 2024.