Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has urged calmness following the High Court’s dismissal of Najib Razak’s bid to serve his reduced jail sentence under house arrest.
In a Facebook post, he called on all parties to handle the matter with patience and prudence.
He noted that while some may lack sympathy for Najib and his family, it is wrong to heighten tensions during this sensitive time.
Commitment to Rule of Law
Anwar emphasised that the Madani government remains committed to upholding the rule of law and the separation of powers.
He stressed that the judiciary must stay independent from external influence.
On this basis, he said, he respects the judge’s decision.
High Court Justice Alice Loke dismissed Najib’s judicial review application yesterday.
The application sought to compel the government to execute a supplementary royal decree for house arrest.
She ruled the addendum order invalid, as it was never deliberated or decided at the 61st Federal Territories Pardons Board, failing to comply with Article 42 of the Federal Constitution.
Najib’s lawyer, Shafee Abdullah, confirmed that the former prime minister will appeal the High Court decision.
Reactions from Government MPs
Several government MPs responded to the verdict on social media.
DAP public secretary and Puchong MP Yeo Bee Yin posted that it was “another reason to celebrate at the end of the year”.
PKR’s Subang MP Wong Chen wrote that “justice lives”.
Umno Leaders Respond
Their comments drew criticism from Umno leaders.
Umno secretary-general Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki suggested reviewing cooperation with those who do not appreciate the party’s contributions.
Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi warned against adding fuel to the fire, in an apparent reference to those celebrating the ruling.
Negeri Sembilan Umno chief Jalaluddin Alias told Yeo to “shut up”.
PKR rapper-turned-politician Syed Ahmad Syed Abdul Rahman Alhadad described her post as “uncouth and uncalled for”.
