UMNO ACCUSES PH OF QUESTIONING KING’S POWER
PH issued a statement on Wednesday stressing that those who have been convicted of corruption or abuse of power should serve the full sentences imposed by the courts.
The coalition stressed that any decision involving high-profile cases must take into account public confidence in Malaysia’s commitment to its reform and anti-corruption agenda, The Edge reported.
PH added that ongoing judicial processes must be allowed to run their course “without raising any perception” of influence by other considerations.
FMT reported that PH reaffirmed its commitment to the reform agenda, the rule of law and anti-corruption efforts, even “when under pressure”.
While PH’s statement did not name any cases or individuals, it came in the wake of news reports about Friday’s pardons board meeting.
Sin Chew Daily reported that Yeoh, who is from the PH component Democratic Action Party, briefed the PH presidential council on Tuesday night.
DAP and PH are under pressure following disappointing state election results in recent months, including in Johor and Negeri Sembilan. They have pledged to double down on reforms including anti-corruption measures ahead of Malaysia’s next general election, to be held by February 2028.
In contrast, BN and its lynchpin party – the United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) – were victorious in Johor and Negeri Sembilan on the back of a Malay-unity partnership with national opposition coalition Perikatan Nasional.
UMNO secretary-general Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki on Wednesday said that it is disappointed by PH’s statement, adding that it “appears to question” Sultan Ibrahim’s power to pardon prisoners as “enshrined in Article 42(1) of the Federal Constitution”.
“Unlike PH, UMNO does not intend to pre-empt the consideration of the Pardons Board or demand any particular decision. Whatever decision is made through the legitimate process should be respected by all parties,” said Asyraf.
He questioned PH’s move and said that its unity government partner has on several occasions “belittled and questioned the Institution of the Malay Rulers for their political interests”.
“This clearly contradicts the principles and conditions that were mutually agreed upon in the agreement to form the Malaysian unity government,” said Asyraf, who added that UMNO “remains steadfast” in upholding the Malay royal institution.
“Any attempt to pressure or sow negative perceptions directly or indirectly against this institution is a form of betrayal of the Constitution and the nation.”
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