KUALA LUMPUR: Umno leaders have expressed sadness that former president Datuk Seri Najib Razak’s pardon application has been deferred, leaving him still imprisoned.
Party president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, however, said Umno would always respect the decision, which was the Yang di-Pertuan Agong’s prerogative.
“We are sad with the decision. However, we always uphold the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and the Royal institution.
“We express hope that His Majesty, through his wisdom, will make the best decision.
“We hope for the best outcome possible for Datuk Seri Najib Razak,” he added.
Umno secretary-general Datuk Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki also said the party would always uphold the Yang di-Pertuan Agong’s prerogative.
“It is not right for any party to question this,” he said.
He said Umno vowed to continue its fight for Najib and would use every constitutional and legal avenue available to seek justice for the former prime minister.
Asyraf Wajdi said Umno hoped the application would be considered at the next meeting without unnecessary delay, in accordance with the legal and constitutional process.
“For Umno, the struggle to seek justice for Najib is not an attempt to challenge the institution or the legal process.
“Instead, the party will continue to use every avenue available under the Federal Constitution and the law to ensure that his right to fair consideration is fully upheld,” he said.
Umno Youth chief Datuk Dr Muhammad Akmal Saleh echoed this, saying the process must be respected.
“There must be no political pressure or interference from any parties,” he said.
He said the youth wing would continue upholding the judicial process as well as the Constitution.
