KUALA LUMPUR – Umno has called off its planned January 6 rally in support of former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak, citing a royal decree reminding all parties to respect the Yang di-Pertuan Agong’s constitutional prerogative in granting pardons.
In a statement issued yesterday, Umno Secretary-General Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki said the party made the decision to cancel the protest following the King’s remarks and directives from the Inspector-General of Police.
“Out of respect for His Majesty’s decree and adhering to the Federal Constitution, Umno has decided not to proceed with the planned gathering,” Asyraf said.
The announcement came hours after Istana Negara reminded parties that applications for pardon or remission must be initiated by the prisoner concerned and submitted to the Pardons Board, which is chaired by the Agong.
His Majesty holds the prerogative, as outlined under Article 42(1) and (2) of the Federal Constitution, to grant pardons, reprieves, and commutations for offences committed in the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur, Labuan, and Putrajaya, upon the advice of the Pardons Board.
The palace urged all parties to respect the Federal Constitution and adhere to legal processes, a reminder seen as a veiled response to solidarity rallies planned by Umno and PAS.
Former prime minister Najib Razak is currently serving a 12-year prison sentence for corruption related to the SRC International case.
His appeal to serve the remainder of his sentence under house arrest is scheduled to be heard at the Court of Appeal on Monday.
Umno said it remains confident in the King’s wisdom and compassion in ensuring justice for Najib.
“Najib has contributed immensely to the nation and its people. We trust in the magnanimity and discretion of His Majesty to consider his appeal,” Asyraf added.
The party also expressed gratitude to its members for their unwavering moral support, despite no formal instructions for mobilisation prior to the planned protest.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim, when asked about the palace’s statement, stressed the need for all parties to “read, digest, and accept the decree of His Majesty’s statement.”
The rallies had raised concerns over potential tensions surrounding Najib’s legal proceedings, but Umno’s decision to shelve its protest could ease the political temperature ahead of Monday’s court hearing. – January 4, 2025