Unity Government faces delicate dance after Najib sentenced reduction - Analyst

SHAH ALAM - Reducing former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak's jail term and fine could significantly strain the relationship between Umno and Pakatan Harapan (PH) supporters within the unity government.

According to O2 Malaysia Head Researcher Anis Anwar, the Pardons Board's decision might be perceived by Umno supporters as a sign of PH's antagonism, potentially causing divisions.

Anis pointed out that the perception of PH supporters influencing government decisions on high-profile cases could exacerbate these rifts.

"The concept of justice varies and often conflicts among different groups, making it exceedingly difficult for the board to render a decision that could universally satisfy all parties.

"This complexity highlights the intricate interplay between legal judgments and public sentiment in high-profile cases," Anis told Sinar Daily.

He also noted that Perikatan Nasional (PN) might use the decision as a political tool to question the government's stance on corruption and integrity.

"This strategy could serve a dual purpose...firstly, to attack the government's credibility and, secondly, to "rub salt in the wounds" of Umno supporters, further inflaming their dissatisfaction with the government.

"This proverbial act of exacerbating an already painful situation could intensify the political turmoil, undermining the unity government's stability," he added.

Meanwhile, Political analyst Associate Proffessor Dr Syaza Shukri from IIUM voiced her disappointment, pointing out that the decision comes after just one year of Najib's sentencing.

She believed PN would use this to critique the government's corruption fight but noted the long-term impact on elections remains uncertain.

"It is very unfortunate to have this happen over the decision of three different courts.

"PN will definitely use this to label the unity government as not serious with fighting corruption but within the unity government it might be more stable now," she said.

Commenting further, political analyst James Chin suggested that despite social media outrage, the decision might not significantly impact politics since Najib is not allowed to participate in the next general election.

However, he acknowledged the internal issues within PN, particularly in Bersatu, and anticipated attacks on Anwar, who might attribute the decision to the King's prerogative.

"There will be a lot of outrage in social media, but at the end of the day, it will not have an impact on politics because of the way it is structured where Najib will not be allowed to participate in the next general election.

"PN is now in disarray with big problems in Bersatu. They will definitely attack the Prime Minister, but Anwar will say it's the King's prerogative," he said.

In a meeting on Jan 29, 2024, the Pardons Board decided to slash Najib’s jail time in half.

This means the former Umno president would be released from prison on Aug 23, 2028.

The board also slashed the fine slapped on Najib from RM210 million to RM50 million.

If Najib failed to pay the fine, he would have to serve another year in jail and the date of his release would be on Aug 23, 2029.