Why did Najib reject calls for an emergency in 2018?

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Najib Rejected Emergency Declaration Due to Commitment to Democracy and Aversion to Violence

Datuk Seri Najib Razak stated that he rejected the suggestion to declare an Emergency on the night of the May 2018 general election results due to his profound love for democracy and a desire to prevent potential bloodshed. He recounted feeling a deep personal shock and frustration as the election outcomes unfolded, acknowledging his historic position as the first Malaysian leader to be removed from power through a change of government after 60 years of Barisan Nasional (BN) rule. Despite being counselled with various options by those around him, including the imposition of an Emergency, he unequivocally dismissed this course of action, believing it would inevitably lead to chaos and violence.
Upholding Democratic Principles Amidst Defeat

Najib emphasized that as a practitioner of democracy, admitting defeat and facilitating a smooth transition of power were paramount. He asserted that he played his part in ensuring this process occurred without incident, believing that the will of the Malaysian people, as expressed through their votes, should not be disregarded. He considered himself no longer prime minister that night, preparing to step down from his leadership roles in Barisan Nasional and UMNO, yet his commitment to democratic ideals remained unwavering.
Prioritizing Peace Over Chaos

The former prime minister explicitly stated that he outright rejected the option of declaring an Emergency because he understood it would precipitate chaos and potentially result in bloodshed. This decision stemmed from his conviction that such an outcome would weigh heavily on his conscience. He viewed facing and accepting the defeat as the only honourable and correct path forward, driven by his respect for the democratic process.
The Enduring Value of Democratic Renewal

Najib further articulated his belief in the inherent beauty of democracy, which allows individuals and political entities to reinvent themselves after setbacks. He pointed to the subsequent successes of UMNO and Barisan Nasional, which secured seven consecutive by-election victories after their 2018 defeat, as evidence of this renewal. He also noted his own reinvention with the distinct public persona of "Bossku," illustrating the opportunities for transformation that democracy provides.

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Why did Najib reject calls for an emergency in 2018?

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