High-Profile Case: Najib’s Fate to be Revealed in Court
Background
The High Court in Kuala Lumpur is set to render a crucial verdict in the high-profile case involving former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, who faces charges related to funds from 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB). Najib, 71, is expected to learn whether he will be allowed to enter his defense or acquitted of four charges of using his position to obtain RM2.3 billion in bribes from 1MDB funds and 21 money laundering charges involving the same amount.
The Charges
Najib faces four charges of using his position to gain RM2.3 billion in bribes from 1MDB funds in AmIslamic Bank Berhad’s branch on Jalan Raja Chulan, Bukit Ceylon here between Feb 14, 2011, and Dec 19, 2014. These charges are under Section 23(1) of the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission Act 2009 and can be punished under Section 24(1) of the same act. If convicted, Najib could face up to 20 years in prison and a fine amounting to either five times the value involved or RM10,000, whichever is higher.
Money Laundering Charges
For the 21 money laundering charges, Najib is accused of committing the offences at the same bank between March 22, 2013, and Aug 30, 2013. These charges are under Section 4(1)(a) of the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act 2001, which carries a maximum fine of RM5 million or a prison term of up to five years, or both, upon conviction.
Consequences of Conviction
Najib’s conviction for misappropriating RM42 million from SRC International Sdn Bhd in 2015 resulted in his imprisonment at Kajang Prison since August 23, 2022. A conviction for the current charges could lead to further imprisonment.
Court Hearing
The High Court hearing is scheduled to begin at 9 am, with Judge Datuk Collin Lawrence Sequerah set to read out the decision. Media practitioners from various news organizations have gathered at the Kuala Lumpur Court Complex as early as 7 am to cover the case.
Conclusion
The High Court’s ruling will bring closure to the long-running case, which has had significant implications for the country’s political landscape. The outcome will determine the fate of Najib, a former prime minister, and shed light on the alleged misappropriation of funds from 1MDB.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the charges faced by Najib?
- Four charges of using his position to obtain RM2.3 billion in bribes from 1MDB funds and 21 money laundering charges involving the same amount.
- What are the penalties for conviction?
- Up to 20 years in prison and a fine amounting to either five times the value involved or RM10,000, whichever is higher, for the first set of charges; maximum fine of RM5 million or a prison term of up to five years, or both, for the money laundering charges.
- When is the hearing scheduled?
- The High Court hearing is set to begin at 9 am.
- Where is the hearing being held?
- The Kuala Lumpur Court Complex.