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KUALA LUMPUR – A controversial royal addendum calling for the house arrest of former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak has stirred a heated debate in Malaysia. Datuk Seri Jamal Md Yunos, an influential grassroots leader, supports Datuk Seri Ahmad Zahid Hamidi's claims about the existence of a royal order from the 16th Yang di-Pertuan Agong. This order, allegedly signed on February 29, calls for Najib's sentence to be served under house arrest.
Jamal, who is the Sg Besar Umno division chief, is one of 10 Umno division chiefs who heard about the order directly from Zahid during a private meeting. Zahid, who is also the current Deputy Prime Minister, discussed the issue during the recent fasting month at Yayasan Akalbudi before performing his Umrah pilgrimage.
The Royal Addendum and Najib's Case
Najib, 70, was sentenced to 12 years in prison and fined RM210 million for his involvement in the 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) scandal. The Federal Territories Pardons Board later reduced his sentence to six years and the fine to RM50 million. Najib then filed for a judicial review, seeking to confirm the addendum's existence and have it executed.
Zahid's Involvement
According to Zahid, he was first told about the royal addendum by Investment Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Tengku Abdul Aziz. The minister shared the news during a meeting at Zahid's residence on January 30. Tengku Zafrul reportedly showed Zahid a scanned copy of the decree from the phone of the Kota Raja Umno division chief.
A Critical Witness
Zahid's support for Najib's claims was expressed in an affidavit filed with the Kuala Lumpur High Court on April 9. The affidavit aims to validate the existence of the royal addendum. Tengku Zafrul, however, plans to file his own affidavit to address any factual discrepancies in Zahid's claims.
Calls for Transparency
Umno Supreme Council member Datuk Mohd Puad Zarkashi emphasized the need for the government to address the controversy surrounding the royal addendum. He argued that clarity is essential to calm public sentiment and prevent criticism against the government.
Puad pointed out that Zahid, as Deputy Prime Minister, even submitted an affidavit, and neither the Attorney-General nor Tengku Zafrul denied the addendum's existence. He believes that allowing the house arrest to proceed would be the best course of action.
Umno Veterans Speak Out
Umno Veterans Club secretary Datuk Mustapha Yaakub echoed Puad's sentiment, stressing the importance of explaining the royal order to avoid confusion, especially among Najib's supporters.
Conclusion
The drama continues to unfold as Malaysian leaders grapple with the situation surrounding Najib Razak's potential house arrest. The public awaits further developments and hopes for a resolution that respects the rule of law and maintains transparency.
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