KUALA LUMPUR: Reforms group CSO Platform for Reform expressed concerns over the Federal Territories Pardon Board's lack of transparency surrounding the lesser sentence and fine granted to former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak.
In a statement today, CSO Platform for Reform told the Pardons Board to disclose the grounds for the halved prison term and 76 per cent reduced fine granted to him, as part of upholding transparency and accountability process in handling the country's largest corruption scandal.
"The Madani government administered by Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim should present the reasons for the 50 per cent reduction in prison sentence while the 76 per cent reduced fine that Najib has to pay to the public to show their transparency in fighting corruption.
"This right is clearly enshrined in the Malaysian Constitution under Article 42(9) which mandates the disclosure of any written opinion submitted by the Attorney General to the Yang Di Pertuan Agong.
"In emphasising the public's right to this information, it not only questions transparency but also the critical aspect of upholding accountability in the legislative process. Article 42(9) illustrates the legal recognition of the public's right to access details related to the pardon proceedings indirectly increasing public confidence in the pardon board," it read.
It said the lack of transparency not only raises questions about the handling of the corruption scandal but also undermines public confidence in the justice system.
It also said that the disclosure of details related to the pardon proceedings is crucial for maintaining public trust and ensuring the consistent application of legal standards to all citizens.
The group also warned that issuing an unjustified amnesty sets a dangerous precedent, eroding the fundamental principles of the rule of law.
The statement added that an unjustified pardon could compromise accountability and equality before the law, shaking public trust in the justice system and creating a sense of injustice among the people.
"The rule of law depends on the consistent and fair application of legal standards to all citizens. When an amnesty lacks a clear justification, it introduces an element of arbitrariness, suggesting that certain individuals may be exempted from the consequences of the law without sufficient reason."
They are calling for the Madani government, led by Anwar, to fulfil promises of a clean government and restore public confidence in the credibility of its administration.
"The recent amnesty, which reduced both the punishment and fines, is seen as a setback for transparency and accountability under the leadership of Anwar. CSO Platform for Reform also urges swift action to address these concerns and uphold the principles of transparency and accountability from the Madani government," it said.