PETALING JAYA: Umno secretary-general Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki has denied reports that former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak is preparing to settle his RM50 million fine to qualify for house arrest.
“Not true,” Asyraf told the New Straits Times (NST) when contacted for comment on the reports.
His denial follows an earlier report by Berita Harian, which cited sources as saying that a representative of Najib was expected to make the payment at the Kuala Lumpur Court Complex today.
READ MORE: Najib expected to settle RM50m fine: Report
However, Najib’s legal team was reportedly unaware of any such arrangement, having yet to receive instructions to proceed with the payment.
The speculation has also fuelled debate within Umno, particularly as the Melaka state election campaign gets underway, with party members divided over the potential political consequences of Najib serving the remainder of his sentence at home.
Some believe his return to his family could boost Umno’s electoral prospects in Melaka and strengthen the party’s position ahead of the next general election.
Others, however, are concerned that the development could have adverse political repercussions, particularly in terms of public perception and the party’s standing among voters.
An Umno veteran said that while Najib’s reunion with his family would be welcomed, the broader implications for the party and Barisan Nasional remained uncertain.
“Of course, we would be happy if Bossku is allowed to serve house arrest and be with his family.
“However, politically, we are not sure how this will impact Umno and Barisan Nasional as a whole,” the veteran was quoted as saying.
Another party insider warned that the possibility of Najib being placed under house arrest could create discomfort within the party’s top leadership.
The source also questioned the move to raise RM50 million for one individual, particularly when many Malaysians were struggling financially, recalling the backlash Umno faced over its previous fundraising initiative.
“Personally, I feel it would not be a good move for Najib to be allowed house arrest.
“When we (Umno) launched the donation drive, we received plenty of backlash from the people, even our own party members.
“Many are suffering, and RM50 million could go a long way to help the rakyat, not just one person,” the source said.
Among Umno members campaigning in Melaka, opinions on the matter remain divided, with some closely watching whether the reported payment will materialise while others are questioning the origins of the funds.
The reports also attracted members of the media to the Kuala Lumpur Court Complex, where journalists were seen waiting in the lobby for developments.
However, they were not allowed into the payment counter area, which was being monitored by police personnel.
On Sept 18, reports emerged that Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim had granted Najib a conditional pardon, allowing him to serve the remainder of his prison sentence under house arrest until Aug 23, 2028.
The arrangement was reportedly subject to the payment of a RM50 million fine.
