It’s the moment the world has been waiting for: The trial of Malaysia’s former Prime Minister, accused of sundry charges, including money laundering, criminal breach of trust, and abuse of power.
One hundred lucky members of the media were able to score front row seats to the action, inside the Jalan Duta High Court complex.
Among the tidbits that were shared in the prosecution’s opening statements were claims that RM500,000 (US$130,000) from 1MDB funds Najib is alleged to have laundered were used for a shopping spree at a Honolulu Chanel boutique.
Attorney General Tommy Thomas outlined that evidence points to money sourced from SRC International Sdn Bhd were funneled directly into the former statesman’s private bank accounts by two subsidiary companies, and were transferred again into another personal account in Najib’s name.
From that account, the AG told the courts that they have concrete evidence that the one-time PM left a paper trail showing that these accounts not only sponsored the Honolulu shopping spree, but were also used to pay for renovations to both of his private residences in Kuala Lumpur and in his home constituency of Pekan, Pahang on the country’s east coast.
Reading from a 10-page opening statement, Thomas outlined the timeline of events: “The accused, between Aug 17, 2011, and Feb 8, 2012, as a result of the aforesaid, had received as gratification the said monies totaling RM42mil into his AmPrivate Banking-1MY no.211-202-201188-0 and AmPrivate Banking-MY no.211-202-201190-6 bank accounts.”
Alluding to his CBT charges, the AG stressed that the prosecution would outline how Najib used his simultaneous position as both PM and Finance Minister and misappropriated RM27 million (US$7 million), RM5 million (US$1.25 million) and RM10 million (US$2.45 million). Thomas added that credit card charges from the Chanel shop in Honolulu confirm the purchases made in December 2014.
Adding that Najib was entrusted with the most powerful office, he claims the former leader at one time had near absolute power.
“This trial is the first of many kleptocracy-1MDB-linked prosecutions. To prove the prosecution’s case beyond a reasonable doubt, the prosecution will be relying on direct and circumstantial evidence, both oral and documentary.”
Strong words, and emotions were running high outside the courts, after a former MP made a wily appearance in front of international and local media, demanding to be let inside the court.
One-time Padang Serai MP, N. Gobalakrishnan, a die-hard Najib supporter, caused quite the scene after he was denied entry. Despite having been told that Najib’s side was already full with family members and his officers, Gobalakrishnan insisted he be allowed in, and began recording the incident on his phone.
“This is a jungle court controlled by Tommy Thomas,” he yelled.
Those inside report that the ruckus, along with his shouting, could be heard inside.
Five minutes later, an officer came into the lobby where the scene was unfolding, and asked those present to leave the area.
Gobalakrishnan then shouted: “This is not your grandfather’s court!”
He was eventually led away, though a small group of supporters remained outside the courts complex, and greeted the former PM upon his exit with chants of: “Mala Apa Bossku” (What’s to be ashamed of, Bossku) and “Hidup Najib” (Long-live Najib).
The trial continues April 15.
