Why was the RM6.6 billion trial for Najib and Irwan Serigar delayed again?

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High Court Rejects DNAA Bid, Orders RM6.6 Billion Trial to Commence on November 14

The High Court has denied the applications by former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak and former Treasury secretary-general Tan Sri Mohd Irwan Serigar Abdullah for a discharge not amounting to acquittal (DNAA) in the RM6.6 billion government funds trial. Consequently, the judge has ordered the trial to proceed on November 14, 2024, without further delays, despite the prosecution not yet having delivered all necessary documents to the defence. This marks the second instance where the court has rejected such a request from the duo in this specific case.
Incomplete Document Disclosure Hinders Defence Preparation

The trial, which was slated to commence, has been postponed because the prosecution has not yet furnished the defence with the complete set of required documents. Lawyers for Najib and Irwan Serigar argued that they are unable to adequately prepare for the trial without these documents, some of which are still pending declassification. This situation has led to repeated applications for a DNAA, with the defence stating they are ready to face the charges once all necessary materials are provided.
Court Sets Deadline for Document Submission

Justice Datuk Muhammad Jamil Hussin ruled that the period between August and October would be sufficient for the prosecution to deliver all outstanding documents to the defence. This directive aims to ensure that the defence has ample time to review the materials and prepare their statements before the trial begins in November. The judge emphasized that no further delays would be tolerated.
Second DNAA Application Rejected by High Court

This is the second time Najib and Irwan Serigar have sought a DNAA in relation to the RM6.6 billion charges. Their initial attempt on March 3, 2022, was also unsuccessful. The defence highlighted that the charges have been pending for six years, and the piecemeal delivery of documents, coupled with delays in declassification, has impeded their ability to mount a proper defence. The prosecution, however, maintained that they have actively pursued the declassification process with relevant ministries and government departments.
Charges Stem from Alleged CBT of Government Funds

Najib and Irwan Serigar face six charges of criminal breach of trust (CBT) involving RM6.6 billion in government funds. These charges are linked to payments made to International Petroleum Investment Company (IPIC) and 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB). The alleged offences occurred at the Finance Ministry Complex in Putrajaya between December 21, 2016, and December 18, 2017. The charges fall under Section 409 of the Penal Code, read together with Section 34 of the same code.

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Why was the RM6.6 billion trial for Najib and Irwan Serigar delayed again?

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