Najib and Dzulkefly settle RM5 million defamation suit

Former PM Najib Razak and minister Dzulkefly Ahmad resolve a defamation case over a 2022 Facebook post, with Najib clarifying his statements

KUALA LUMPUR: A defamation lawsuit filed by Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad against Datuk Seri Najib Tun Razak has been settled out of court.

The case, initiated in 2022, concerned a Facebook post by the former prime minister alleging nepotism in the appointment of Dzulkefly’s daughter to a government-linked trust.

Najib’s lawyer, Tan Sri Muhammad Shafee Abdullah, informed High Court Judge Mahazan Mat Taib that the parties had reached an agreement.

Najib then read a prepared statement to the court.

“I take note that his complaint in court is that my post was interpreted as portraying him practising nepotism regarding his daughter’s appointment,” he stated.

“I accept the fact that he was not involved in that appointment and there was no element of nepotism on his part.”

Najib clarified that the post was not intended to defame Dzulkefly or imply corruption.

“Instead, it was intended to highlight the perception of double standards among political parties,” he explained.

He said the post was made in his capacity and responsibility as a member of parliament.

“Its true meaning and purpose was as general political commentary on broader issues of governance and GLC appointments.”

Najib acknowledged the difficulties caused to Dzulkefly and his family.

“While my post was political commentary, I acknowledge the difficulties that arose for him and his family, and that was not my intention,” he said.

He extended his best wishes for Dzulkefly’s continued service to the nation.

Following the statement, Dzulkefly’s lawyer Stanley Sebastian Sinnappen informed the court no further relief would be sought.

Judge Mahazan recorded his appreciation to both parties for reaching a settlement.

“Court time is an extremely valuable public resource, and both parties are encouraged to consider settlement seriously when circumstances permit,” he said.

The trial had begun last Tuesday, with Dzulkefly completing his testimony yesterday.

Najib’s lawyers were scheduled to cross-examine Dzulkefly’s daughter, Nurul Iman, today.

Dzulkefly had filed the suit in December 2021 over the Facebook post concerning his daughter’s appointment to the Amanah Ikhtiar Malaysia (AIM) board.

He claimed the defamatory post was published with political motive to damage his reputation.

In his defence statement filed in March 2022, Najib said the post was not about Dzulkefly but referred to the coalition of parties in Pakatan Harapan.

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