Did Najib orchestrate the 1MDB scheme or fall victim to rogue subordinates?

Question

Accepted Answer

Najib Was the Orchestrator of the 1MDB Scheme, Not a Victim of Rogue Subordinates

Deputy public prosecutor Datuk Ahmad Akram Gharib argued in court that Datuk Seri Najib Razak was not a victim of selective prosecution or his subordinates' actions in the 1MDB criminal trial. Instead, Akram asserted that Najib was the "architect" and "orchestrator" of the crimes, using his subordinates as "operatives" to execute his designs for personal benefit. The prosecution contends that evidence presented demonstrates Najib's central role in the misappropriation of RM2 billion in 1MDB funds.
Najib Was the Primary Decision-Maker

Akram highlighted Najib's extensive authority at the time of the alleged offences, stating he was the "most powerful decision-maker" in both Malaysia and 1MDB. Najib simultaneously held multiple critical positions, including prime minister, finance minister, chairman of 1MDB’s advisory board, and representative of 1MDB’s sole shareholder, MOF Inc. This concentration of power, the prosecution argued, meant his approval was essential for major 1MDB decisions and projects, underscoring his direct involvement.
Subordinates Acted on Najib's Orders

The prosecution refuted Najib's portrayal of his subordinates as rogue elements acting independently. Akram contended that individuals Najib now labels as culprits were, in fact, acting on his direct orders, through his office, and ultimately for his benefit. Evidence presented suggested that these individuals were Najib's "operatives" who carried out his instructions, directly contradicting the narrative of him being a victim.
Najib Was the Originator and Beneficiary

The prosecution's case, as presented by Akram, positions Najib as the "originator, director, and ultimate beneficiary" of the 1MDB schemes. Akram stated that the evidence reveals Najib "used others to do his bidding" and subsequently sought to evade responsibility for his own actions. This narrative paints Najib not as a wronged party, but as the mastermind who engineered the fraudulent activities.
Funds Flowed to Najib's Accounts, Not Saudi Donations

Contrary to Najib's claims that funds entering his personal AmBank account were Saudi donations, the prosecution presented evidence suggesting otherwise. Akram pointed to AmBank records indicating that over RM2 billion in 1MDB funds flowed through companies controlled by Low Taek Jho and entered Najib's personal accounts. This evidence directly challenges the donation narrative and supports the prosecution's assertion that Najib was the ultimate beneficiary of the misappropriated funds.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

Did Najib orchestrate the 1MDB scheme or fall victim to rogue subordinates?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

1

0

0

Share with friends