In a statement read by his eldest son, Datuk Nizar Najib, former Prime Minister Najib Razak asserts that he was deceived by others involved in the 1MDB scandal and was unaware of the illicit activities tied to the controversial fund.
KUALA LUMPUR – Former Prime Minister Dato’ Sri Najib Razak has reiterated his innocence in the 1MDB scandal, asserting that he was a victim of deception and not involved in the illicit activities that have tainted the fund. Najib emphasized that while the 1MDB debacle happened during his tenure as Finance Minister and Prime Minister, he was not aware of the financial misconduct carried out by others.
In a statement read on his behalf by his eldest son, Datuk Nizar Najib, the former Prime Minister expressed his shock at the extent of the wrongdoing. He pointed to the conviction of PetroSaudi executives in Switzerland and revelations published by The Edge as proof that he was misled. According to Najib, the evidence reveals that PetroSaudi and fugitive financier Jho Low collaborated to deceive him and siphon funds from 1MDB without his knowledge.
Najib Was Not Aware
“I was not aware that PetroSaudi was moving funds from 1MDB, and I did not knowingly receive any money from the funds transferred to them,” Najib said. He explained that at the time, he was advised that the funds he received were political donations from Saudi Arabia, a claim supported by court proceedings that confirmed two significant donations from the Saudi government in 2010.
Najib reflected on his actions during the 1MDB controversy, admitting that he should have been more critical of the explanations provided by the board and management of 1MDB when questions about the fund arose. He stated that his primary concerns at the time were the financial situation of 1MDB and its potential impact on diplomatic relations.
Not The Mastermind
Despite facing political repercussions, Najib argued that recent developments have shown he was not the mastermind behind the 1MDB scandal and that he should not be held legally responsible for the actions of others. “I should not be victimized legally too. I am still in deep shock knowing now the extent of the wretched and unconscionable shenanigans,” he remarked.
As his legal battles continue, Najib, who is serving a six-year jail sentence in Kajang Prison, remains hopeful that the judicial process will ultimately clear his name and prove his innocence. – NMH
Datin Hasnah is the co-founder and CEO of New Malaysia Herald based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.
With an extensive background in mass communication and journalism, she works on building up New Malaysia Herald and it’s partner sites. A tireless and passionate evangalist, she champions autism studies and support groups.
Datin Hasnah is also the Editor in Chief of New Malaysia Herald.
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