Frozen Assets Could Complicate RM50 Million Fine Payment For Najib’s House Arrest, His Lawyers Say

Former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak has been granted a conditional pardon by His Majesty Sultan Ibrahim, the 17th Yang di-Pertuan Agong, allowing him to serve the remainder of his sentence under house arrest until 23 August 2028, provided he meets certain conditions.

As we previously reported, the pardon is conditional on Najib paying a RM50 million fine and complying with the conditions imposed.

Najib will remain in Kajang prison until fine is paid

In a recent development, Messrs Shafee & Co. issued a statement on 20 September on behalf of their client, Najib, addressing the conditional pardon.

The firm explained that the implementation of house arrest is subject to Najib complying with the stipulated conditions. As such, he would have to remain at Kajang Prison until the fine is paid to the court.

“With regard to the condition requiring payment of a RM50 million fine, a substantial portion of our client’s assets, bank accounts and properties are currently subject to freezing orders and enforcement actions by the government. Their disposal is therefore not entirely within his control at this time.

His ability to fulfil this condition therefore depends, in part, on matters that are beyond his control.”

“Najib doesn’t want the public to take on any responsibility on his behalf”

The firm added that Najib is currently seeking legal advice and looking into the available options to determine how he can fulfil the condition.

The statement also addressed the support Najib has received following the announcement, saying he is “deeply touched” by the outpouring of solidarity.

“While our client deeply appreciates these expressions of solidarity, he does not want anyone, whether the party, its members and supporters, or members of the public, to feel burdened or obliged to take on any responsibility on his behalf.

“He remains deeply grateful to those who, of their own free will and according to their respective means, have chosen to extend their support and assistance. Their sincerity has been a tremendous source of strength to him from then until today,” the statement concluded.

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Also read: Najib Granted Conditional Pardon By Agong, Will Serve Remainder Of Sentence Under House Arrest Until 2028