Zahid expresses optimism over prospects for Najib's royal pardon

KUALA LUMPUR — Umno president Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi expressed cautious optimism on Monday regarding the potential for a royal pardon for former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak, suggesting a decision could come as early as the following day.

Zahid's remarks underscored the ongoing efforts within the ruling coalition to seek clemency for Najib, who has been serving a 12-year prison sentence following his conviction in connection with the 1Malaysia Development Berhad financial scandal.

The Umno leader's comments reflected broader anticipation within the party and government circles about the timing and likelihood of the pardon application, which had been submitted to the Yang di-Pertuan Agong's office.

Najib's legal situation has remained a significant issue for Umno, with party leaders maintaining that his conviction was politically motivated. The potential pardon would represent a major development in a case that has dominated Malaysian politics for several years.

No official confirmation on the pardon decision was made at the time of reporting.