Govt has moral duty to audit Umno’s RM50mil Najib fund, says Kadir Jasin

Veteran journalist A Kadir Jasin argues that the Malaysian government should investigate the origins of the RM50 million donated by Umno to pay Najib Razak's fine from the SRC International case. Kadir maintains that the government, despite its anti-corruption stance, must ensure the money's legitimacy, regardless of its source.

"Even if Umno paid the fine, authorities like the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission, police, Inland Revenue Board, and Bank Negara Malaysia should trace the money trail," he asserts in a Facebook post. Kadir emphasizes the need for scrutiny, especially if any contributions are from individuals or businesses connected to government contracts.

"Some businessmen who benefited from these projects might feel indebted, but corruption cannot be entirely ruled out," he adds. On November 7, Kampar MP Chong Zhemin echoed the call, suggesting Umno clarify claims that road contractors contributed to the fund. Tony Pua, former Damansara MP, had earlier urged BNM and MACC to audit the donation, demanding confirmation that the funds were legal and uncorrupted.

However, Walter Sandosam, a former MACC oversight panel member, stated that there are no laws mandating donation audits, calling the Umno-led initiative a private endeavor. Umno paid the RM50 million fine as part of the conditions for Najib's house arrest, which has been temporarily suspended due to unresolved legal issues. Former ACCA Malaysia Advisory Committee president Khalid Ahmad defends the practice of collecting donations, provided they originate from legal sources.

He clarifies that while banks and enforcement agencies can trace funds under anti-money laundering rules, the primary concern is ensuring the legitimacy of the sources.