A refusal by former prime minister Najib Razak to show remorse for actions that landed him in jail will cause the government to be blamed for their role in his pardon process, according to a political analyst.

Political scientist Wong Chin Huat said the ordinary public will question Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim’s commitment to reform after the Pardons Board decided to slash Najib’s jail time from 12 years to six, as well as reducing his fine from RM210 million to RM50 million.

“Whatever the justifications or explanations from the government...