KUALA LUMPUR: Barisan Nasional has condemned "opportunistic quarters" for exploiting former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak's current predicament.
In a statement on Sunday (Jan 5), Barisan labelled these actions as immoral, noting that Najib was previously subjected to insults and slander at these quarters' political events.
"Now, they seek to use this opportunity to build momentum for their political goals," the statement read.
Barisan emphasised their support for the King's prerogative to pardon, postpone sentences, and relieve punishments for offences in the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur, Putrajaya, and Labuan, as outlined in Article 42(1) and (2) of the Federal Constitution.
"Barisan adheres to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong's decree that all parties respect His Majesty's prerogative and utilise the legal channels for submitting appeals," it stated.
Barisan also confirmed there would be no gathering at the Palace of Justice in Putrajaya on Monday (Jan 6).
They reiterated their respect for any party and national leaders facing challenging times, including Najib, and acknowledged their sacrifices and contributions to the country.
"Barisan is committed to ensuring that the legal and judicial processes regarding Najib are conducted sincerely," it said.
The statement also expressed support for Barisan chairman Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi in guiding the coalition through the current situation, upholding principles of loyalty to the royal institution, national stability, unity, and party strength.
This follows the announcement by Opposition party PAS of their planned gathering outside the Palace of Justice in Putrajaya on Monday (Jan 6) to show solidarity with Najib.
Barisan's component, Umno, initially planned the gathering but decided to withdraw after a statement from Istana Negara on Friday (Jan 3).
The statement from Istana Negara reiterated the Yang di-Pertuan Agong's prerogative to pardon, postpone sentences, and relieve punishments for offences in the Federal Territories as provided under Article 42(1) and (2) of the Federal Constitution.
It highlighted that the King can remit, suspend, or lighten any court-imposed punishment, with the advice of the Pardons Board, which he chairs.
The statement further noted that any application for pardons or reduced sentences must be submitted by the prisoner for consideration by the Pardons Board.
Earlier on Sunday (Jan 5), police announced that action would be taken against those attending the planned rally, as it lacked permission from the premises owner, as required by the Peaceful Assembly Act 2012.
The gathering was planned to coincide with the Court of Appeal's hearing related to an alleged royal addendum order that might allow former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak to serve the remainder of his prison term under house arrest.
In 2022, Najib received a 12-year sentence after being found guilty of abuse of power, criminal breach of trust, and money laundering concerning RM42mil siphoned from SRC International, a former subsidiary of 1Malaysia Development Bhd.
He was also fined RM210mil.
However, in February 2024, the Pardons Board decided to commute Najib’s jail term from 12 years to six and reduce the fine to RM50mil.
