In a dramatic turn at the SRC trial, Najib Razak accused the prosecution of suppressing critical evidence from the US and questioned their failure to pursue the real culprits behind the 1MDB scandal. The defence argued that rushed investigations and dubious witnesses have tainted the case, highlighting Najib’s ongoing fight for transparency and justice.
KUALA LUMPUR – In a courtroom drama that continues to unfold, Datuk Seri Najib Razak’s legal defence underscored serious lapses in the investigation and prosecution of the 1MDB scandal, calling into question the fairness of the trial. Led by Tan Sri Muhammad Shafee Abdullah, Najib’s team unveiled new revelations during court proceedings and a press conference, painting a picture of obstruction, bias, and questionable judicial practices.
Unreliable Witness Testimonies and Flawed Charges
During today’s proceedings, Najib’s defence took aim at the testimonies provided by prosecution witnesses, arguing they were unreliable and riddled with contradictions. Shafee pointed out that the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) seemed hasty in bringing charges, neglecting key investigative steps.
Tania Scivetti, another member of Najib’s legal team, further exposed the prosecution’s error in framing charges against Najib for allegedly unlawful transactions. She emphasized that the transactions were, in fact, a legitimate bank overdraft. “The evidence speaks for itself,” she stated, urging the court to recognize the prosecutorial oversight.
Najib himself took the stand, refuting claims of his involvement in the 1MDB scheme. He reiterated that he had been misled and was a victim of deception orchestrated by Jho Low and complicit parties within Goldman Sachs.
Section 1782 Application: A Battle for Evidence in the U.S.
Adding another layer of complexity, Najib’s defence revealed the hurdles faced in the United States to secure exculpatory evidence. In a press statement, Shafee detailed how Najib’s legal team filed a Section 1782 application in New York to obtain key evidence, including depositions from Tim Leissner, a former Goldman Sachs executive who admitted to bribing 1MDB and government officials.
Initially, a U.S. judge granted Najib’s application for subpoenas, allowing the deposition of Leissner and Goldman Sachs representatives. However, this progress was abruptly halted when the U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) intervened, requesting a stay to block the subpoenas.
The intervention led Roger Ng’s lawyer, Marc Agnifilo, to raise ethical concerns. Agnifilo stated he was morally obligated to share exculpatory evidence with Najib’s defence but was hindered by the DOJ’s objections. Ultimately, the U.S. court sided with the DOJ, denying access to evidence that Najib’s team argued could expose the true culprits and exonerate their client.
“This obstruction raises profound concerns about fairness and transparency,” Shafee said during the press conference. “By blocking access to evidence, the DOJ undermines Najib’s right to a fair trial and due process.”
A Fight Against Injustice
Shafee drew attention to the broader implications of the case, asserting that Najib’s pursuit of evidence in the U.S.—a jurisdiction where allegations were first made against him—demonstrated his commitment to uncovering the truth. Najib described his legal strategy as an “insane” move for someone guilty, underscoring his innocence.
Najib’s defence characterized the DOJ’s actions as protecting corporate interests rather than seeking justice. Shafee emphasized that the refusal to disclose evidence not only hinders Najib’s defence but also challenges the principles of justice itself.
“This case is not just about Datuk Seri Najib. It raises serious questions about the politicization of legal processes and the deliberate suppression of truth,” Shafee stated.
Najib Razak’s Resolute Stand
Despite these challenges, Najib remains steadfast in his pursuit of justice. His legal team vowed to explore all avenues to secure the evidence and bring clarity to the case. Shafee closed his statement by reiterating that Najib’s fight goes beyond his own defence—it is a stand against the misuse of power and the suppression of truth.
As the trial progresses, Najib’s defence continues to challenge the narrative built around the 1MDB scandal, calling for a fair and transparent examination of the facts. The stakes remain high, with implications that go beyond one man’s freedom, touching on the integrity of Malaysia’s judicial system and the global perception of justice. – 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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