Najib: Stolen RM3.5m belongs to Umno

KUALA LUMPUR: The RM3.5 million allegedly stolen by security officers responsible for guarding the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) on the night of the 14th General Election (GE14) belonged to Umno, said former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak.

In a statement to Malaysiakini, he expressed disbelief that the money was taken by those entrusted with securing the premises.

“I read in news reports that the authorities acknowledge that the RM3.5 million is part of Umno’s election funds that were at my previous office. If the authorities know about it, they will know that the RM114 million seized by police in raids at the apartments came from the strong room and safes built by Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad at the PMO too.

“The cash was seized after being transferred from the PMO to the apartments a day after the election for transfer to the new Umno president.”

He was referring to a report on 17 security personnel, who allegedly took money upon learning of Barisan Nasional’s loss in GE14.

Sources at the Malaysian AntiCorruption Commission had said the money was part of Umno’s election funds.

The RM114 million was in reference to cash seized together with luxury watches, handbags, and jewellery from properties linked to Najib.

Najib called for the suspects to be given a fair trial.

He urged the authorities to return the RM3.5 million and RM114 million to Umno.

“There were a lot of bills and commitments incurred during GE14 that need to be paid. As I no longer have access to some of my offices then, I am not sure why the RM3.5 million was not stored in safes. But I believe it could have been contributed towards the end of the election campaign.”

Najib, via a Facebook post, said there was no need for Umno to defend him over allegations levelled against him. He said he could defend himself if given a fair trial.

“I am not guilty. My only fault was doing my best for the people, country and party. Allegations were made against me and not Umno, therefore, it is unfair for the party to bear the burden,” he said, adding that he had no intention of becoming Umno president.

He said Umno, under its new leadership, must be given the trust and space to prove itself and, subsequently, regain people’s trust.

“As a party that has taken the country closer to achieve advanced economic status as well as enjoy peace and security since independence, Umno’s contributions cannot be denied and its struggles are noble.

“On that basis, I will continue to be a loyal Umno member and am willing to assist should it need help. I am an Umno division chief and a member of parliament (both for Pekan).”

On helping Barisan Nasional candidate Datuk Lokman Noor Adam in the Sungai Kandis byelection, he said it was done at the former’s request.

I am not sure why the RM3.5 million was not stored in safes. DATUK SERI NAJIB RAZAK

Former prime minister