Jakarta, CNN Indonesia —
Former Prime Minister of Malaysia Najib Razak admitted that he did not reject his re-election to parliament in the next two years, even though he had been involved in a corruption case some time ago.
Najib’s party, The United Malays National Organization (UMNO), returned to the post of prime minister last month after being ousted from power three years ago over a multi-billion dollar scandal.
The opposition also expressed concern about legal relief, which was given to party leaders who were involved in corruption cases after the UMNO Party returned to control of the government.
Najib, who served as prime minister from 2009 to 2018, was found guilty of corruption last year and sentenced to 12 years in prison on seven counts of misappropriation of state funds originating from 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB).
In his statement, Najib denied having committed an offense and appealed the decision of the jury.
Najib is known to be still listed as a member of parliament in the Malaysian government. However, the existing constitution prohibits him from participating in election contests, unless he has received a pardon or a suspended sentence from the government.
Nevertheless, in his interview to Reuters, Najib challenged his disqualification by saying that it all depends on individual interpretation.
“It depends on the interpretation in terms of law, constitution and whatever happens in the court process,” he explained, quoted by Reuters on Sunday (19/9).
When asked whether he would take part in the next election scheduled for 2023, Najib also did not give a clear answer about the position he would take.
“Any politician who wants to play a role will want a seat in parliament,” he said.
(REUTERS/ard)
– .
