KUALA LUMPUR – Umno will continue to advocate for justice for Datuk Seri Najib Razak, regardless of differing opinions on the issue, claims party Vice-President Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin.
The Umno leader said that the convicted former prime minister was not given due justice and outlined the party remaining steadfast in their decision to free him.
"We are continuing our efforts to secure Najib’s release. This stance reflects Umno's principle of never forgetting the contributions of past leaders. We believe Najib did not receive due justice and remain resolute in our position until justice is served," he told reporters at the World Trade Centre (WTC) during the Umno General Assembly 2024.
Addressing criticisms from other parties such as Pakatan Harapan (PH), Khaled argued that differing opinions would not deter Umno.
"Having differing opinions does not mean Umno should stay silent," he said.
He stressed that Umno must continue advocating for its principles, including defending past leaders like Najib.
"As our president, Zahid has stressed, Umno will only collaborate with parties that share our fundamental values: defending Islam, the Malay language, the position of the Malay rulers, and the special rights of Malays," he said.
He added that any party willing to accept these principles is welcome to cooperate with Umno.
"Regarding Najib, Umno has made its decision, and it is inappropriate for any party to deny us the right to voice our concerns," he said.
Umno secretary-general Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki told delegates at the opening of the general assembly that the majority of motions submitted called for a full pardon.
A total of 72 Umno divisions out of 191 had submitted motions calling for this, he added.
Najib started his 12-year prison term in August 2022 when the Federal Court upheld his sentence and fine of RM210mil in the SRC International Sdn Bhd case.
He was convicted of abusing SRC International funds amounting to RM42mil.
On Feb 2, the Pardons Board announced that it had decided to reduce Najib's jail term from 12 years to six, with a release date of Aug 23, 2028, and to reduce his fine from RM210mil to RM50mil.