PUTRAJAYA: Supporters of former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak, who gathered outside the Palace of Justice on Friday (Dec 27), denied claims that they were paid to be there, insisting their presence was voluntary and driven by sincere support for Najib.
The atmosphere outside the court turned lively as supporters chanted slogans such as “Hidup Bossku”, “Bebas Najib” and “1Malaysia”, while maintaining that they had come at their own expense.
One supporter, Mohammad Rafie, 42, from Sabah, dismissed allegations that the crowd had been paid, saying their attendance was motivated by appreciation for Najib’s past leadership.
“We were not paid. People came from various places and states because we remember Najib’s contributions. These are the faces of loyal supporters who have stood by Datuk Seri Najib from the beginning,” he said.
Another supporter, Vellasamy, 58, from Sepang, echoed the sentiment, saying those present had borne their own costs, including food and fuel.
“Please stop saying we were paid. Many of us came here at our own expense. Whatever the outcome, we respect the Constitution and will accept the court’s decision with an open heart,” he said.
On Friday, the Kuala Lumpur High Court is expected to decide whether Najib will be acquitted or convicted of four corruption charges and 21 counts of money laundering involving RM2.3bil in 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB) funds.
The decision is being delivered at the Palace of Justice by Justice Collin Lawrence Sequerah, who is now a Federal Court judge.
