Analyst warns of political motivations behind support for Najib

Asrul Hadi Abdullah Sani says some figures in Umno may be trying to use Najib Razak’s popularity among the grassroots for their own benefit.

(FMT) – Although several Umno leaders expressed support for Najib Razak at the party’s recent general assembly, a political analyst warns that some may not have done so with entirely sincere motives.

Asrul Hadi Abdullah Sani, formerly of BowerGroupAsia, acknowledged that the former prime minister is still a well-loved figure in Umno, crediting his “Bossku” persona with his popularity among the party’s rank and file and the Malay populace.

“Ironically, his jail sentence has made him even more endearing to his supporters. I think many Umno leaders were shocked to see their former leader behind bars, and the sincerity is there.

“However, it cannot be denied that support for Najib could also be politically motivated due to his popularity with the party’s grassroots,” he told FMT.

Asrul also said support for Najib was “an important counterbalance” against current Umno president Ahmad Zahid Hamidi, who is trying to strengthen his grip over the party.

However, he said Zahid – who appeared to choke up when dedicating a poem to Najib last Saturday – would have no real incentive to push for his former boss to be released from prison.

“Najib would surely undermine his leadership and position in the party. Even if Zahid continues as Umno president, many will perceive Najib as the real source of power in the party.

“To his supporters, Najib is the only leader who can unite the party and regain the support of Malay voters and, most importantly, Umno members who have since left,” he said.

Najib’s name was repeatedly mentioned at the Umno general assembly last week, with top leaders pledging to do all they can to secure a full royal pardon for the ex-party president.

Closing the annual meeting, Zahid delivered a poem in tribute to his “friend”, lauding Najib’s contributions to the nation and Umno.

In February, the Federal Territories Pardons Board halved Najib’s prison sentence in the SRC International case from 12 years to six and reduced his fine from RM210 million to RM50 million.

Najib, 71, who faces three ongoing criminal cases, began serving his sentence at Kajang prison on Aug 23, 2022 and is set to be released on Aug 23, 2028.
Akademi Nusantara’s Azmi Hassan said Najib’s popularity and influence in Umno was certain, and his release from incarceration will be heralded by the grassroots.

“Whether during the Umno general assembly or outside of it, whoever pushes for Najib’s release, including Zahid, will be regarded as a hero, because Umno members think Najib has not been treated very fairly despite going through the legal process.

“If Najib is out (of prison), Umno will no doubt be much stronger and find it easier to attract Malay support. Regardless of whether Najib holds a position in Umno or just plays a role behind the scenes, (his presence) will be beneficial for Umno,” he said.