THERE is plenty of excitement on the ground following reports that former prime minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak may make the RM50 million payment to enable him to serve the remainder of his sentence under house arrest.
According to reports in Berita Harian, quoting sources, a representative is expected to make the payment at the KL Court Complex today.
On Sept 18, it was reported that Yang di-Pertuan Agong Sultan Ibrahim had granted Najib a conditional pardon allowing him to serve the remainder of his prison sentence under house arrest until Aug 23, 2028.
The order, however, was conditional upon Najib paying the RM50 million fine.
According to UMNO insiders, the move may serve as a double-edged sword, especially at a critical time during the Melaka state election.
While some believe it could increase UMNO’s chances, not only in Melaka, but also for GE16, some believe the house arrest could work against UMNO.
“Of course, we would be happy if Bossku is allowed to serve house arrest and be with his family.
“However, politically, we are not sure how this will impact UMNO and Barisan Nasional as a whole,” said one party veteran.
Another insider said Najib’s house arrest could cause uneasiness among the party leadership itself, especially for the ‘top three’.
“Personally, I feel it would not be a good move for Najib to be allowed house arrest.
“However, when we (UMNO) launched the donation drive, we received plenty of backlash from the people, even our own party members.
“Many are suffering, and RM50 million could go a long way to help the rakyat, not just one person,” he said.
Overall, the sentiments among UMNO members campaigning in Melaka remain mixed.
However, the report has stirred great excitement, and many are waiting to see who comes forward to make the payment, while others question where the money came from.
According to reports, several media personnel are waiting in the court complex lobby but have been barred from entering the payment counter area.
Police personnel have also been deployed to the lobby. – November 4, 2026
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