Najib’s ability to pay RM50mil fine ‘not entirely in his hands’, say lawyers

Former prime minister Najib Razak’s ability to pay his RM50 million fine imposed as a condition for his house arrest is partly beyond his control as most of his assets remain subject to freezing orders and enforcement proceedings, say his lawyers.

Under the conditional pardon granted to Najib on Friday, the former Umno president will serve the remainder of his sentence in the SRC International case under house arrest until Aug 23, 2028, subject to payment of the fine.

In a statement issued on his behalf today, Messrs Shafee & Co said Najib was considering his options on how best to fulfil the condition.

The law firm said he remained in Kajang prison while the condition was being addressed, and that his legal team was studying the terms of the conditional pardon and their practical implications.

“A significant part of his assets, bank accounts and properties remains subject to freezing orders and enforcement proceedings by the government, and their disposal is not presently within his sole control,” it said.

“His ability to satisfy the condition, therefore, turns in part on matters that do not lie in his own hands.”

The lawyers said Najib also expressed gratitude to those who had offered assistance towards meeting the RM50 million condition.

However, they said, he did not want Umno members, supporters or members of the public to feel burdened or obliged to assist him.

“He remains profoundly grateful to those who, entirely of their own free will and according to their respective means, have chosen to offer their support and assistance,” they said.

“Their kindness is a source of great strength to him at this time.”