Malaysian ex-leader Najib takes stand in 1MDB trial

Former Malaysian prime minister Najib Razak was a “victim” of the multi-million dollar 1MDB scandal that saw state coffers drained on his watch, his lawyer said Tuesday, as the ex-premier gave evidence in his own fraud trial. Huge sums were stolen from sovereign wealth fund 1Malaysia Development Berhad, allegedly by the ex-prime minister and his cronies, and spent on everything from high-end real estate to artwork.

Najib’s coalition was ousted at the polls last year after six decades in power, largely due to public anger over the scandal. He has since been arrested and hit with dozens of charges linked to the looting of the investment vehicle. “Najib is not part of the conspiracy. He is a victim as much as others in the 1MDB scandal,” his lawyer Muhammad Shafee Adbullah told reporters.

“The leader of the pack is Jho Low,” he said, referring to fugitive Malaysian financier Low Taek Jho, a member of Najib’s inner circle who allegedly masterminded the elaborate fraud that spanned from the United States to Switzerland, Dubai and Singapore. “The crux of my defence is the entire scheme is designed by Jho Low,” Shafee added.

Low “portrayed himself as someone influential in the Middle East countries” Najib told the packed courtroom, speaking calmly during five hours of testimony. “I thought his influence and connections will help 1MDB achieve its goals and attract investments.” The former leader arrived at the court wearing a blue suit and held a brief Muslim prayer with supporters at the building’s steps.