Unity government remains stable despite Najib pardon disagreement

Deputy Prime Minister Zahid Hamidi has sought to downplay concerns over tensions within the unity government coalition, stating that differing views on the conditional pardon granted to former Prime Minister Najib Razak have not affected the smooth functioning of the administration.

Zahid's comments come amid reports of divisions among coalition partners regarding the pardon decision, which has remained a contentious issue since its announcement. The Deputy Prime Minister emphasised that such policy disagreements are natural within a multi-party coalition and do not undermine the government's ability to deliver on its agenda.

The unity government, comprising Barisan Nasional, Pakatan Harapan, and other political parties, has maintained power through a collaborative arrangement despite their historical rivalries. Zahid's statement reflects efforts by senior government figures to project stability and unity to the Malaysian public and international observers.

The conditional pardon granted to Najib, who was convicted in connection with the 1Malaysia Development Berhad scandal, has proven divisive among coalition members, with some partners expressing reservations about the decision. However, Zahid's reassurance suggests that such policy differences are being managed within the framework of the coalition agreement.