FridayOL

Kuala Lumpur - Despite facing significant legal hurdles, former Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak may still be eligible for parole, according to his lawyer. This comes as Najib continues to navigate the complexities surrounding a recent royal addendum related to his ongoing prison sentence.

The situation stems from a recent amendment to Article 160(2) of the Federal Constitution, seemingly granting the Yang di-Pertuan Agong (King) the power to grant pardons to individuals convicted of crimes, even during the serving of their sentences. This has sparked considerable debate and legal challenges, with Najib seeking a judicial review to determine the validity of this addendum and its implications for his case.

Understanding the Legal Landscape

Najib Razak is currently serving a 12-year prison sentence following his conviction on charges of abuse of power, money laundering, and bribery related to the 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) scandal. The recent royal addendum has introduced a new layer of complexity to his legal battle. While he is pursuing a judicial review to challenge the addendum's legality, his lawyer maintains that even if this review is unsuccessful, Najib's eligibility for parole remains a possibility.

“Even if the judicial review doesn’t go his way, the possibility of parole is still there,” stated the lawyer, emphasizing that parole is a separate process from a pardon. Parole involves the early release of a prisoner based on good behavior and rehabilitation, while a pardon completely absolves the individual of the crime.

Parole Eligibility and Factors Considered

The Parole Board of Malaysia considers several factors when deciding on parole applications, including the nature of the crime, the prisoner’s behavior while incarcerated, their remorse for the offense, and their prospects for successful reintegration into society. A prisoner typically becomes eligible for parole after serving a certain portion of their sentence, which varies depending on the severity of the crime.

While Najib’s high-profile case and the seriousness of his offenses present challenges, his lawyer believes that demonstrating good conduct in prison and presenting a compelling case for his rehabilitation could positively influence the Parole Board’s decision.

The Ongoing Judicial Review

The judicial review remains a crucial aspect of Najib's legal strategy. The outcome of this review will determine the validity of the royal addendum and its potential impact on his pardon eligibility. Legal experts are divided on the addendum’s constitutionality, with some arguing that it infringes upon the separation of powers and the judiciary’s independence. The High Court is expected to hear arguments in the judicial review case in the coming weeks.

Public Opinion and Political Implications

The case continues to generate significant public interest and has broader political implications. Najib’s supporters view the royal addendum and the possibility of parole as potential avenues for his release, while critics argue that it undermines the rule of law and the integrity of the justice system. The ongoing legal proceedings are being closely watched by Malaysians and international observers alike.

Looking Ahead

The legal battle surrounding Najib Razak’s case is far from over. While the judicial review and the possibility of parole present distinct legal pathways, both are subject to complex legal considerations and public scrutiny. The coming weeks and months will be critical in determining the future of Najib Razak and the broader implications for Malaysia’s legal and political landscape. The possibility of parole, even amidst the legal challenges, offers a glimmer of hope for the former Prime Minister and his supporters, while the judicial review process remains a pivotal test of Malaysia’s constitutional principles.