KUALA LUMPUR – Supporters of Datuk Seri Najib Razak have called out Bukit Gelugor MP Ramkarpal Singh for a live debate over the SRC International case, in which the high court found the former prime minister guilty and sentenced him to 12 years in jail in 2020.
Najib’s official Facebook account had earlier carried a statement, which stated that many in the public do not understand the case facts or have followed the court proceedings closely.
They were countering Ramkarpal’s statement yesterday, in which he urged the Pardons Board to disclose the reasons behind their decision, as it is a matter of public interest.
“It also does not help that MPs such as Ramkarpal Singh have neglected to mention or address the many irregularities that have led to the Chief Judge of Sabah and Sarawak and head of the SRC case review panel concluding that a great injustice has fallen on Najib and the correct decision is to acquit and release him.
“Now that the SRC RM42 million case has come to an end, and there is no longer any danger of subjudice or contempt of court to discuss the case publicly, it is now time for an open forum to be held to better inform the public and to help them draw their own conclusions based on facts instead of misinformation.
“We invite Ramkarpal Singh to a televised open debate with a representative from our side on the subject of whether or not Najib deserves a pardon for the SRC Case.
“Should Ramkarpal (who no longer has any reason not to attend since he is no longer a deputy minister) decline, other recent haters such as Tony Pua and Hanipa Maidin can take his place. Our officers will reach out to you for suitable dates and venues if any of you agree,” read the post.
The call was made to the individuals following the recent Federal Territories Pardons Board decision to grant Najib a reduction of 50% in jail sentence (from 12 years to 6 years) as well as a reduced fine from RM210 million to RM50 million.
Najib is currently serving his jail sentence after he was found guilty in 2020 of misappropriating RM42 million of SRC International’s funds.
Following the Pardons Board announcement, Tony Pua, who is a DAP senior leader, took to his Facebook page to post cryptic reactions to the news, such as “I beg your pardon?” and “Can someone send me to jail for one year and in exchange, pay me RM50 million? Pretty please?” Earlier, Nooryana posted on her social media page that her father was “disappointed, very, very disappointed” by the Pardons Board decision. – February 4, 2024