Najib supporters call for 'justice' ahead of review bid

About 200 supporters of Najib Razak have gathered at the grounds of Istana Kehakiman in Putrajaya to await the Federal Court's decision on the former prime minister's bid for a review of its verdict last year upholding his conviction, jail term and fine for the misappropriation of RM42 million in SRC International funds. 

Shouts and calls for justice could be heard from the group, which began gathering as early as 7am. 

Noriah Daud, of the Justice for Najib movement, said she wanted to see justice given to the former leader, and the integrity of the judiciary without bias towards any particular party. 

"Actually, Bossku doesn't want to be freed," she said, referring to Najib by his moniker. 

"He only wants justice for himself. We are asking for the judges' discretion today, to discuss Najib's case in a transparent manner.

"What we are asking (is) the discretion of the wise judge to discuss Najib's case today, let it be done in a transparent manner. Even the prime minister has said that it must be transparent." 

Najib was escorted into the court earlier this morning, although the proceedings have yet to begin as his lawyer, Muhammad Shafee Abdullah, is objecting to one of the judges sitting on the panel. 

Najib's application is being heard by five judges: Chief Judge of Sabah and Sarawak Abdul Rahman Sebli, Court of Appeal judge Abu Bakar Jais, and Federal Court judges Vernon Ong Lam Kiat, Rhodzariah Bujang and Nordin Hassan.

Shafee had asked Abu Bakar to recuse himself, saying only Federal Court judges should be on the bench. 

Najib is seeking to overturn the decision by a five-man Federal Court bench led by Chief Justice Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat on Aug 23 last year, upholding his conviction, 12-year jail sentence and fine for the misappropriation of RM42 million in SRC International funds.