FORMER prime minister Najib Razak has accepted DAP veteran leader Lim Kit Siang’s challenge for a debate over the 1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB) scandal, saying his aides will arrange for a date after the Hari Raya celebrations next month.

In a Facebook post today, Najib said he is willing to debate the suggested topic – “How Malaysia became a global kleptocracy and how we can become a leading nation of integrity” – but will also suggest other topics.

“I accept the title that he has proposed, but to be fair, we will need to discuss other topics during this debate.

“I suggest that this debate be held after Hari Raya and it should be telecast live so the people can watch.

“My officers will be in touch with Kit Siang’s officers to organise this debate.”

Later, Lim said in a statement that his political Syahredzan Johan and parliamentary liaison officer Ahmad Faiz Mustafa will finalise the details with Najib’s team.

Earlier today, Najib was quoted in a news report challenging Lim, whom the former prime minister said was “obsessed” with him, to a debate.

Lim, in response, has questioned the need to debate with Najib, whom he called a “pathological liar” but indicated that he will be ready to engage in a debate about the former prime minister’s role in 1MDB’s losses.

Lim added Najib has not responded to questions on denials of the 1MDB scandal, and calls to clarify matters regarding other corruption cases that took place when he was in office. – May 21, 2019.