Saying sorry won't cut it, PKR Youth says over Najib's apology

PKR Youth said the law must take its course despite former prime minister Najib Abdul Razak’s recent apology.

In a statement today, the party wing emphasised that the apology cannot serve as a shield for anyone attempting to evade accountability for wrongdoings that occurred.

“Public interest and justice for the Malaysian people must not be compromised. An apology alone will not restore the losses endured by the citizens.

“Those affected by this scandal cannot be overlooked,” it stressed.

Yesterday, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said he “welcomes” Najib’s apology for the 1MDB scandal.

Anwar also serves as PKR president and finance minister.

In a statement delivered by his son Nizar at the Kuala Lumpur High Court on Thursday, Najib apologised for the 1MDB scandal that took place under his leadership while maintaining his innocence.

Elaborating, the wing demanded strict action against all individuals involved in the scandal, regardless of status or position, and insisted they be held accountable.

It said Malaysians deserve to see justice served, as the 1MDB scandal has profoundly affected the citizens’ livelihoods.

“The obligation to ensure transparency and integrity in public administration must be prioritised to restore the public’s trust in government institutions.

“The 1MDB scandal has tarnished the nation’s reputation and resulted in significant losses to the economy and the people’s livelihoods.

Responses to Anwar

Earlier, PKR Youth deputy chief Muhammad Kamil Abdul Munim clarified that Anwar’s response should not be interpreted as an attempt to downplay the scandal’s impact.

Anwar’s response has received flak, including from former MACC chief Latheefa Koya, who contended that the prime minister lacked the authority to accept the apology.

Former Pakatan Harapan MP Mohamed Hanipa Maidin also said Anwar’s response did not represent everyone, while DAP MP RSN Rayer voiced concern that the public may struggle to forgive the government over the matter.

Meanwhile, lawyer Mohamed Haniff Khatri Abdulla maintained that Najib was fully within his legal rights to make statements regarding his case.

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