Najib Razak remains in Kajang prison until RM50M fine paid

KUCHING: Former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak will remain at Kajang Prison pending payment of the RM50 million fine required before his transfer to house arrest can take effect, his lawyers said today in a statement on his behalf.

Shafee & Co said the conditional pardon granted to Najib does not provide for an immediate transfer, as the conditions attached to the decision must first be fulfilled.

“In the meantime, and until the fine is paid to the court, our client remains in Kajang Prison,” the firm said in a statement.

The Attorney-General has similarly said the RM50 million must be paid at the Kuala Lumpur High Court Registrar’s Office before the house arrest process can proceed.

Najib’s legal team said it was studying the terms of the conditional pardon and their practical implications.

It added that a significant portion of Najib’s assets, bank accounts and properties remained subject to freezing orders and government enforcement proceedings, meaning their disposal was not entirely within his control.

“His ability to satisfy the condition therefore turns in part on matters that do not lie in his own hands,” the firm said.

Najib is currently seeking legal advice and considering his options to meet the payment requirement.

The Federal Territories Pardons Board on Sept 18 granted Najib a conditional pardon allowing him to serve the remainder of his sentence under house arrest until Aug 23, 2028, subject to payment of the RM50 million fine and compliance with the conditions imposed.

His lawyers also acknowledged the fundraising initiative launched to assist with the fine, but said Najib did not want UMNO members, supporters or members of the public to feel obliged to contribute.

The firm said Najib remained grateful to those who had voluntarily offered assistance and requested that his family’s privacy be respected.