THE much-publicised searches at premises linked to former prime minister Najib Razak are an attempt to divert the people’s attention from the election promises made by the Pakatan Harapan government, said Umno grassroots members. 

They said the drama surrounding the seizures was simply to tarnish Najib’s reputation and to divert attention from PH’s failure to show proof that Malaysia is bankrupt.

Umno Seputeh branch member Tashreeq Abdul Rashid said he has no issues on investigations carried out against the former party president but the manner of the searches was improper and disrespectful. 

“He is being treated like a criminal, it’s not proven that he is guilty, so the least you can do is to treat him like someone who has contributed to the country because he is a statesman. 

“I don’t agree with the treatment because all past leaders have made mistakes, give him a chance to prove himself without being disrespectful,” Tashreeq told Malaysia Decides. 

Police raided several properties linked to Najib, including condominium units at the Pavilion Residences over four days last week. 

The searches are part of an ongoing probe into 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB). Najib is being investigated under the Anti-Money Laundering, Anti-Terrorism Financing and Proceeds of Unlawful Activities Act. 

Another Umno member from the Tanjung Malim division, who requested anonymity, also concurred with Tashreeq, saying the searches were carried out to cover up PH’s failure in proving that Malaysia was a failed state. 

“Tun (Dr Mahathir Mohamad) is trying to distract the public’s attention from the focus of his failure to show proof that Malaysia is going bankrupt. He has failed. 

“Statement from Bank Negara dispute Dr Mahathir’s claims that Malaysia is a failed state.

“Our country is still okay, he’s trying to paint Najib as the bad guy, thief, that is his intention,” he said. 

Cheras Umno committee member Tajul Mohd Tahir said Najib should have relinquished his posts earlier, to avoid the people’s anger towards Barisan Nasional.

“If he had quit, things like this wouldn’t have happened. Now they are digging up all kinds of dirt. 

“And when police conduct these searches, of course, I will believe it because they have raided the houses and taken all the items,” he said. 

Police seized 284 handbags, which included Hermes Birkins and Louis Vuittons, as well as 72 suitcases filled with jewellery, cash and other valuables.

Tashreeq, who is also deputy chairman of Overseas Umno Club Alumni Association, said he saw no wrong with Najib’s family’s wealth due to his position in the government. 

“When you have a position, people like to do business with you. Families of past prime ministers are also well off, why nothing is said about that? Just because there are allegations against Najib people can simply judge him?

“So, you can’t judge people like that, he is a former prime minister and even other people who don’t have any position can be rich, what more when you are the prime minister, don’t tell me he doesn’t make any money at all.”

Another Umno member from Johor said he would wait for the results of the investigations before passing his judgment. 

“I don’t want to comment but let’s just see the outcome of the investigations.” – May 21, 2018.