Muhyiddin trial: Prosecution completes case after 29 witnesses

The prosecution concluded its case in former Malaysian Prime Minister Tan Sri Muhyiddin Yassin's power abuse trial after presenting evidence from 29 witnesses, paving the way for the next phase of the proceedings. Lead prosecutor Datuk Wan Shaharuddin Wan Ladin announced during the High Court session that the prosecution would conclude its argument today, and would offer Muhyiddin six potential witnesses if he is required to defend himself.

These witnesses include Muhyiddin's former deputy chief private secretary Asmar Asmadi, former principal private secretary Datuk Marzuki Mohamad, and others. High Court judge Noor Ruwena Md Nurdin subsequently set a four-day schedule for continued hearings, with the trial expected to resume on November 26 and December 1-3. During these hearings, both the prosecution and Muhyiddin's legal team will present arguments on whether Muhyiddin must enter his defense.

A criminal trial typically consists of two stages: the prosecution must prove a prima facie case after calling all its witnesses. If the High Court determines there is no prima facie case, Muhyiddin would be acquitted. If a prima facie case exists, the trial moves to the defense stage, where Muhyiddin will be required to present his defense.

The trial commenced on March 9 and has lasted approximately 32 days. Today, the prosecution also sought a discharge not amounting to acquittal (DNAA) for four of the seven charges against Muhyiddin, which the High Court has discretion to grant at its own discretion for reasons of justice. In this case, Muhyiddin now faces three charges of power abuse involving RM25.3 million in alleged bribes received from Nepturis Sdn Bhd, Azman Yusoff, KCJ Engineering Sdn Bhd, and Mamfor Sdn Bhd.