Pardons Board needs to explain why Najib’s sentence was reduced, says KJ

IN THE light of former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak’s prison sentence reduction, former Health Minister, radio presenter and podcaster Khairy Jamaluddin (pic), 48, has said that the Pardons Board should explain why the former’s prison sentence was reduced.

Speaking at a press conference, Khairy said that if a crime had been committed, then people should know on what basis the sentence was reduced.

"If this was done in consideration of his service to the nation, then the board should come forward to explain.

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"If not this will give rise to a lot of speculation as to why different sets of rules are being applied to different people," said Khairy on Friday (Feb 2) during a press conference to promote the KL Podfest this weekend (Feb 3 and Feb 4).

He also added that within the next few days, this would be a hot topic of discussion among academicians who would raise questions on whether the King had full discretion or if it was based on the decision of an entire board.

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With regards to Najib’s release, which would be very close to the upcoming 16th general elections that would have an impact on the political landscape, Khairy said though he would not be able to contest, his presence would certainly make a difference.

"Though Najib will not be able to contest, he will go on the campaign trail and he does have supporters," said Khairy.