Anwar says no conflict of interest in Najib’s royal pardon application, but nothing has commenced

SHAH ALAM, April 8 — Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim said today that when it comes to Datuk Seri Najib Razak’s possible request for a royal pardon, there is no conflict of interest with his office’s involvement with the Pardons Board.

However, the prime minister said the issue should not yet be debated as there has been no official process or papers on the matter except for Umno’s statement proposing the process.

“No need to debate in public. There is no question of conflict of interest,” Anwar told reporters after officiating the Kita Untuk Kita programme by Think City here.

“I’ve not seen the process or papers. It’s premature for me to comment as I’ve not seen anything, except for Umno’s resolution, and, parties individuals including those convicted have the right to appeal.

“I don’t want to preclude anyone for that matter,” he added.

Anwar was responding to reporters’ questions regarding his position in the Pardons Board, as the Federal Territories Ministry was restructured and now placed as a department under the Prime Minister’s Department instead.

Article 42(5) of the Federal Constitution establishes a Pardons Board for each State, as well as one for the Federal Territories.

The Pardons Board consists of the attorney-general, a menteri besar or chief minister or the Federal Territories minister, and not more than three other members appointed by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong or Yang di-Pertua Negeri.

Commenting further, Anwar said the process of a royal pardon can be applied for by anyone.

“But we will abide by the rules and conditions, and while the processes may vary, and I am part of the process, the question of awarding of medals and pardons it depends on the Yang di-Pertuan Agong.

“What is the process? The process is very elaborate, it has to be followed and finally, the decision is solely the discretion of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong,” Anwar added.

Umno Supreme Council had yesterday expressed their intention to ask the King to consider granting a royal pardon to disgraced former prime minister Najib, who is currently serving his 12-year jail term at the Kajang prison for corruption charges.

The party’s secretary-general Datuk Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki had in a statement said that the council had unanimously agreed to seek an audience with the King to present a memorandum urging Najib be pardoned.