KUALA LUMPUR: The Kuala Lumpur High Court's ruling requiring Datuk Seri Najib Razak to enter his defence allows the former prime minister an opportunity to prove his innocence, said Umno president Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi.
In a statement on his Facebook page, Zahid said the ruling does not imply that Najib is guilty of the charges related to abuse of power and money laundering involving 1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB) funds.
"This decision does not confirm his guilt; it provides Najib with the opportunity to defend himself and prove his innocence.
"On behalf of Umno and Barisan Nasional, and as a friend, we believe Najib is on the right side," he said.
Zahid said that he respects the rule of law and has no intention of challenging the High Court's decision.
He added that Umno and BN will continue to support Najib to ensure he receives justice.
"We pray that those responsible for the 1MDB misconduct are brought to justice, and we hope Najib will receive the justice he deserves."
Earlier today, presiding judge Datuk Collin Lawrence Sequerah ordered Najib to enter his defence on all charges after ruling that the prosecution had established a prima facie case against the former prime minister.
Najib, 71, is facing four charges of using his position to obtain bribes totalling RM2.3 billion from 1MDB funds and 21 charges of money laundering involving the same amount.