DAP threatens ministerial walkout if Najib receives royal pardon

The Democratic Action Party has signalled it would abandon its ministerial positions in the federal government should former Prime Minister Najib Razak receive a royal pardon, marking a potential flashpoint in the ruling coalition's stability. Ben Fong, a senior DAP leader in Kuala Lumpur, said the party could not remain part of the administration under such circumstances, describing the scenario as untenable. "It is unacceptable for DAP to remain in government if the former prime minister is freed," Fong said, according to reports. The stance underscores growing tension within Malaysia's coalition government over the handling of Najib's legal proceedings. Najib is currently serving a 12-year prison sentence following his 2023 conviction on charges related to the 1Malaysia Development Berhad scandal, though he has maintained his innocence and continues legal appeals. A royal pardon would require the approval of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong and has emerged as a contentious issue within government ranks, with different coalition partners holding varying positions on the matter. The DAP's warning suggests that any move to grant Najib clemency could fracture the delicate balance within the current administration.