Umno ready to face MACC in court, says Mohamad Hasan

(FMT) – Acting Umno president Mohamad Hasan says the party is ready to face the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission in court over the agency’s move to recover monies allegedly belonging to 1MDB.

Speaking to reporters on the sidelines of PAS’ 65th Muktamar, Mohamad said MACC was following procedures in seeking recovery of the funds after it froze Umno’s accounts last year.

“Umno must put forth its arguments as to why the money should be returned to us and we will do that.”

Mohamad said Umno has written to MACC to explain its reasons as to why the money should be returned to the party, and added the letter will be presented in court a year from the date the funds were frozen, as provided under the law.

“After one year, the courts will decide, meaning both parties need to present their arguments. So it is up to the court to listen and make a decision,” he said, adding he would leave the next course of action to Umno’s lawyer.

Earlier today, the Malaysian Anti-Corruption Commission (MACC) filed civil forfeiture applications against 41 individuals and entities to recover some RM270 million allegedly transferred from former prime minister Najib Razak’s account.

The 41 include state Umno divisions and branches, textile store Jakel Trading, jewellery franchise Habib Jewels Sdn Bhd, BN component party divisions, right-wing groups and business entities.

MACC chief commissioner Latheefa Koya said the forfeitures filed under Section 56 of the Anti-Money Laundering Act is to recover RM270 million of 1MDB money transferred to Najib’s account and later to the individuals and entities

She added MACC is allowing the individuals concerned to return the money voluntarily to avoid further prosecution.