Sack Zaliha from cabinet immediately – Muda

SHAH ALAM - Muda has called for the immediate dismissal of the Minister in the Prime Minister’s Department (Federal Territories) Dr Zaliha Mustafa from the cabinet, following the recent reduction of former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak's jail term from 12 years to six years.

In a statement, Muda said Zaliha has failed in her duties as an advisor and decision-maker in matters related to clemency.

"Referring to the statement issued by the Pardons Board regarding the reduction of the sentence on Najib Razak, we demand Zaliha Mustafa to be dismissed from the cabinet immediately," said Muda in a statement.

Muda stressed that as a government representative in the pardon board, which functions as both an advisory body and a recommending authority for all pardon-related decisions, Zaliha has failed in her responsibilities.

"If she has dignity and principles, she should take responsibility for the decision.

"It is mandatory for her to state the stance and rationale of the Pardons Board regarding this privilege," the statement further said.

The party also called on Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim to clarify the government's position on the matter and explain the rationale behind the decision.

Muda also expressed concern over the potential impact of the decision on Malaysia's global image, including economic and legal repercussions.

"The decision raises questions about the identity and principles of the nation, creating an impression that the wealthy and politically influential receive preferential treatment and an easy way out.

"While the Madani government led by Pakatan Harapan has been chanting slogans of reform and justice for decades, it is essential for them to declare their position and send a clear message," Muda said.

Former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak, who is serving a 12-year prison sentence, will be released earlier, that is on Aug 23, 2028, after the Prisons Board decided to reduce his sentence by half.

The Pardons Board for the Federal Territories of Kuala Lumpur, Labuan and Putrajaya made the decision at its 61st meeting on Jan 29.

According to the statement issued by the Pardons Board Secretariat, the fine to be paid by Najib is also cut to only RM50 million from the original RM210 million.

"After taking all views and advice into consideration, the Pardons Board has decided that the sentence and fine imposed on Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak to be given a 50 per cent reduction," the statement said.

If Najib failed to pay the fine, he would have to serve another year in jail and the date of his release would be on Aug 23, 2029.

The statement also said that five pardon papers, including that of Najib's, were deliberated by the Pardons Board during the meeting which was presided over by Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri'ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah whose reign as 16th Yang di-Pertuan Agong, last Tuesday.