Najib being called to enter defence will not affect BN's support in Tg Piai

TG PIAI POLLS | BN chairperson Ahmad Zahid Hamidi does not think former prime minister Najib Abdul Razak being called to enter defence in his SRC International Sdn Bhd case would affect their campaign in the Tanjung Piai by-election.

"That person's case has nothing to do with any by-election and we can rationalise that the spirit and level of support from the voters will not be influenced by any court issues because they generally know that the trial is being done according to the legal process," Zahid said to reporters in parliament today.

He said that Najib had gone to Tanjung Piai to campaign last night and he still received an extraordinary welcome.

"Anyone who wants to help (the BN candidate), we will give them as much space as they need, not only to explain the current issues but also to see that support should be given to the BN candidate," Zahid said.

Opposition leader Ismail Sabri also said that Najib's case would not affect the by-election as the voters in Tanjung Piai are mostly fishermen and smallholders who are more concerned about the cost of living issues.

Earlier today, the Kuala Lumpur High Court ordered Najib, who is the former BN president, to defend himself against all seven charges in relation to SRC International.

Zahid and Ismail Sabri also said they would not distance themselves from Najib after the court's decision this morning.

"Whether someone is being investigated or undergoing a trial or asked to enter defence, Umno and BN's stand will remain the same.

"We have no stand of distancing ourselves from anybody," Zahid said.

Meanwhile, Ismail Sabri said Najib's case was a personal issue so Umno does not need to distance themselves from him.

"And Najib has said he will not involve Umno in his case.

"He will continue with the case in court and other leaders are also involved in court cases.

"That is an issue involving themselves, not the party and such.

"But as the former party president, we will continue to give moral support to Najib in facing this case," Ismail Sabri said. - Mkini