SHAH ALAM - Umno Supreme Council member Datuk Seri Ahmad Maslan has criticised Amanah Communications director Khalid Abdul Samad's for not supporting the former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak's royal pardon efforts.
He said leaders should refrain from making statements that do not support such efforts, as it may lead to unnecessary arguments.
"The pardon is the right of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong. It is unwise to have differing views with the decision made by the Umno Supreme Council to appeal for His Majesty to provide a royal pardon for the sixth prime minister.
"There's an argument there but what's important is to stay in harmony with the views of the component parties. The Umno Supreme Council made the proposal based on what they believed could be done," he said.
He further said the Umno Supreme Council members said their proposal for a royal pardon was based on existing regulations and was feasible.
"It’s better if they don’t say anything if they’re not in support of it instead of simply arguing,” Ahmad added.
He said the action to appeal for a royal pardon for Najib were possible but some leaders did not have sympathy for him, possibly due to past differences during his time as the prime minister.
Ahmad further said those who had been with Najib for a long time had a different view, implying that they may have a more sympathetic view towards the former leader.
"We are confident he was not given the justice he deserves. They may not feel such way hence why they oppose the pardon efforts.
"However, as a family in the unity government, they must respect the views of their friends,” he said.