DAP urges calm over Najib clemency as transport minister resigns

A senior Democratic Action Party official has urged the public not to react with anger to the royal pardon granted to Najib Razak, saying Malaysians must respect the constitutional authority of the Yang di-Pertuan Agong. The appeal comes as Transport Minister Anthony Loke announced his resignation from the cabinet, citing the clemency decision as his reason for stepping down.

Loke's departure marks a significant moment in Malaysia's political landscape, with observers noting it could impact the government's stability and cohesion. The minister's resignation underscores deep divisions within the ruling coalition over the clemency granted to Najib, who was serving a 12-year sentence for corruption-related convictions.

The DAP's call for restraint reflects the party's effort to maintain political balance despite internal opposition to the king's decision. Party leaders have acknowledged public disappointment while emphasizing the need to respect constitutional processes. However, the resignation of a prominent cabinet member signals that consensus on the issue remains elusive within government circles.

The controversy highlights ongoing tensions within Malaysia's political establishment regarding accountability and the exercise of executive clemency powers. With Loke's departure, attention now turns to how the government will manage its coalition dynamics and whether further departures may follow.