KUALA LUMPUR – The high court judge presiding over Datin Seri Rosmah Mansor's money-laundering and tax evasion case involving RM7,097,750 has suggested that the trial be transferred before another judge so that it can be heard earlier.
Judge Mohamed Zaini Mazlan made the suggestion after deputy public prosecutor Poh Yih Tinn updated the court on Rosmah's corruption case involving a solar hybrid project for rural schools in Sarawak, which is fixed for oral submissions on February 10 next year after the prosecution wrapped up its case on December 11.
Zaini, who is presiding over both cases, had initially decided to start Rosmah's money-laundering and tax evasion trial after the completion of her corruption trial.
Zaini: Have you given thought to getting another judge to hear this (case) if you are more keen to proceed earlier?
Poh: I have to consult the senior DPPs.
Zaini: (You should) think about that. Otherwise, it is fine to just maintain (the trial at) this court. So, we will fix another case management on February 25 next year pending your discussion.
Poh: Ok, I will discuss it with (senior DPP) Datuk Seri (Gopal Sri Ram).
Rosmah, 69, who was exempted from attending the proceedings, was represented by her lawyer, Datuk Geethan Ram Vincent.
On October 4, 2018, the wife of former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak pleaded not guilty to 12 counts of money laundering involving RM7,097,750, and five counts of failing to declare her income to the Inland Revenue Board. – Bernama, December 18, 2020
