AGC seeks clarification on Najib release order, not royal pardon review

The Attorney General's Chambers (AGC) is not challenging any conditional pardon granted by the Yang di-Pertuan Agong in relation to Najib Razak's release, DAP Member of Parliament Ramkarpal Singh clarified on Tuesday. Ramkarpal said the AGC's move was limited to seeking an explanation regarding the specific High Court order that led to Najib's release, rather than contesting any royal prerogative of mercy. The clarification came after reports suggesting the AGC might be questioning the Agong's decision to grant a pardon to the former premier, who is serving a 12-year sentence for corruption. Ramkarpal emphasised that the distinction was important, as the Yang di-Pertuan Agong holds constitutional authority to exercise mercy powers under Article 42 of the Federal Constitution. The matter relates to Najib's conviction in 2023 on charges related to the misappropriation of funds from 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB).