Pkr Youth Leader Decries Double Standards In Pardon Call For Najib

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A PKR Youth leader has called out the "double standards" of Najib Abdul Razak’s supporters in calling for the former prime minister’s early release via a royal pardon.
Bukit Bendera PKR Youth chief Amir Syamimi Hashim questioned the rationale behind those who committed "petty crimes" serving their full terms, while Najib who was convicted for multiple counts of corruption, could possibly get a pardon.
"It is particularly troubling to note that many of those serving full terms for minor crimes, such as stealing motorcycles or taking drugs as a result of addiction or desperation, are unlikely to be granted a pardon.
"Their families suffer as a result of their incarceration. Additionally, they are often unable to find employment after their release due to the stigma associated with their criminal record," Amir said in a statement today.
He further questioned the need for Najib to receive "special treatment".
"The call for a pardon for Najib is seen by many as an attempt to shield the former prime minister from the consequences of his actions.
"This is a clear example of the double standard that exists in the mindsets of the former premier's followers, where the powerful and well-connected are able to evade the consequences of their crimes while the less privileged are forced to serve out their full terms."
A matter of justice
Aside from political expediency, the issue of Najib's pardon request also touches on the essence of justice and the principles of natural law and Islamic teachings that underpin the country's legal system, Amir added.
"It is incumbent upon us to ensure that justice is applied equally and fairly to all, regardless of their social status, political affiliation, or race. We must reject any attempt to use political pressure to influence the outcome of criminal cases, and instead, rely on the rule of law and the principles of morality and ethics to guide our decisions."
Yesterday, Prime Minister's Department Legal Affairs Division director-general Khairul Dzaimee Daud said the Pardons Board will consider Najib’s application at another time.
The former Pekan MP is serving 12 years in jail for corruption and abuse of power in the RM42 million SRC International case. In addition, he was also slapped with an RM210 million fine.
Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, who sits on the Pardons Board, has reiterated that every convicted person has a right to seek release from prison by filing an application with the board. - Mkini

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