'We were not paid': Najib's supporters insist attendance at trial is voluntary

As former Malaysian prime minister Najib Abdul Razak awaited the verdict on his 25 charges related to 1Malaysia Development Berhad (1MDB), a small group of supporters gathered and cheered him on.

On Dec. 26, Najib's supporters held signs that stated Demi Najib which translates to "for Najib's sake" and chanted slogans such as Bebas Bossku which means "free my boss", reported Malaysiakini.

The group of around 40 United Malays National Organisation (UMNO) members arrived as early as 7:30am.

They refuted rumours that they were paid to do so and maintained that their attendance was voluntary and propelled by genuine appreciation for Najib and his past leadership, stated The Star.

'We were not paid. People came from various places and states because we remember Najib’s contributions.'

Supporters came from all over Malaysia and declared that they had travelled to the Palace of Justice at their own expense.

The Star interviewed Mohammad Rafie, 42, a supporter from Sabah who denied claims that the crowd was bankrolled.

“We were not paid. People came from various places and states because we remember Najib’s contributions. These are the faces of loyal supporters who have stood by Datuk Seri Najib from the beginning.”

The sentiment was echoed by other supporters, including Faridatul Akma Osman, 61, an Umno Women committee member from Bagan Serai, Perak. 

Speaking to Malaysiakini, she stated that she had been in Kuala Lumpur for nearly a week to support Najib, and she was also present when Najib's house arrest bid was rejected.

"We’re all here for Bossku, and no matter what happens, the most important thing is our sincere intentions.”

Supporters rallied together, and several women handed out homemade Nasi Lemak to fuel other supporters with the same cause, according to Malaysiakini.

Najib was found guilty on all 25 charges of money laundering and abuse of power.

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Top photo from Reuters.