How did Najib attempt to cover up his involvement in the 1MDB scandal?

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Najib's Attempts to Obstruct 1MDB Investigations

Former Prime Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak took several steps to conceal his involvement in the 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) scandal, including disbanding an investigative task force and attempting to influence the central bank governor. These actions were considered by the High Court judge when determining Najib's sentence for his role in the financial scandal. The judge highlighted these efforts as evidence of Najib's attempts to cover up his crimes when the 1MDB scandal first came to light.
Disbanding of the 1MDB Task Force

One of Najib's actions to obstruct the investigation into 1MDB was the disbandment of a dedicated task force that was examining the scandal. This task force was actively investigating the financial impropriety surrounding the state investment fund. The judge noted this act as a critical step taken by Najib to halt and suppress the ongoing inquiry into 1MDB's activities.
Attempt to Influence Bank Negara Malaysia Governor

Furthermore, Najib made an attempt to persuade the then-governor of Bank Negara Malaysia (BNM) to issue a public statement that would exonerate him from any wrongdoing related to the 1MDB case. This effort to secure an official endorsement of his innocence from the head of the central bank was another tactic employed to manage the public perception and the unfolding scandal. The judge cited this attempt as a significant effort by Najib to control the narrative and evade accountability.
Lack of Remorse and Blame Shifting

In addition to these obstructive actions, the judge also observed Najib's lack of remorse. Instead of accepting responsibility, Najib had chosen to attribute blame for the 1MDB scandal to others, specifically the management of 1MDB and his proxy, Low Taek Jho. The court found that evidence clearly indicated Najib's orchestration of fund siphoning, working in tandem with Low Taek Jho through a complex series of transactions that ultimately led 1MDB funds to Najib's personal bank accounts.
Abuse of Power in Exalted Position

The judge emphasized that Najib was not a mere employee but an individual in an "exalted position" who abused and betrayed the trust placed in him. Holding simultaneously the roles of Prime Minister, Finance Minister, and chairman of the 1MDB board of advisers, Najib allegedly exploited these positions to influence the 1MDB board into executing "abnormal transactions with unholy haste." This abuse of power was central to the judge's consideration of the sentence.

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How did Najib attempt to cover up his involvement in the 1MDB scandal?

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