PETALING JAYA - Former Umno Youth chief Khairy Jamaluddin has joined calls for the Federal Territories Pardons Board (FTPB) to clarify its reasoning behind halving former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak's prison sentence.
While acknowledging the board's legal autonomy, Khairy argued that transparency is crucial in this high-profile case.
"Given the public interest surrounding this individual's past position and the seriousness of the charges, I believe the board should offer an explanation for the sentence reduction," Khairy told reporters when met at PJ Performing Arts Centre here today.
The former health minister also respected the decision but stressed the importance of public understanding.
He further noted that the academic community might analyse the extent of the King's discretion in such decisions and whether the board itself collectively decided on the reduction.
He also acknowledged the potential impact of Najib's release on the upcoming 16th General Elections.
"While Najib will not be eligible to run for office, he will actively engage in the campaign trail, and he does have supporters,” said Khairy.
The FTPB's announcement confirmed Najib's release on August 23, 2028, with an earlier release possible upon settling a RM50 million fine.