UMNO secretary-general Datuk Dr Asyraf Wajdi Dusuki has dismissed reports that Datuk Seri Najib Razak is preparing to pay the RM50 million fine for him to serve the remainder of his prison sentence under house arrest.
“Not true,” Asyraf told the New Straits Times (NST) when asked about the reports.
The denial follows reports that a representative of the former prime minister was expected to make the payment at the Kuala Lumpur Court Complex today.
Berita Harian, citing sources, reported that arrangements were being made for the payment. However, Najib’s lawyers reportedly said they had received no instructions to proceed with it.
The speculation has drawn attention within Umno, where the prospect of Najib returning home has prompted mixed reactions, particularly with the Melaka state election underway.
Some party members believe his return could lift Umno’s prospects, both in Melaka and at the next general election.
Others, however, are wary of the political fallout, including how the issue could affect the party’s relationship with voters.
An Umno veteran said that while Najib’s return to his family would be welcomed, its wider political implications were less certain.
“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,” the veteran was quoted as saying.
Another party insider said the prospect could create unease among the party leadership, particularly its top three leaders.
The source also questioned the decision to raise such a large sum for one individual when many Malaysians were facing financial difficulties, recalling the criticism Umno received over its earlier donation drive.
“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,” the source said.
Among Umno members campaigning in Melaka, reactions remain divided.
While some are eager to see whether the payment will go ahead, others have questioned the source of the money.
The reports also drew media personnel to the Kuala Lumpur Court Complex, where journalists were said to be waiting in the lobby.
They were, however, barred from entering the payment counter area, with police personnel deployed at the location.
On Sept 18, reports emerged 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 arrangement was subject to payment of the RM50 million fine. – November 4, 2026
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