Graft trial against Malaysian ex-premier’s wife begins

By Riyaz ul Khaliq

ANKARA (AA) - A corruption trial involving the wife of former Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak began on Wednesday, local media reported.

69-year-old Rosmah Mansor is facing trial on three charges of graft and soliciting bribes of around 194 million ringgit ($47.1 million) when Razak ruled the country. She is accused of committing offences between March and September in 2018.

On the first day of the trial against Rosmah Mansor, Razak’s wife, prosecutor Gopal Sri Ram told the Kuala Lumpur High Court that Rosmah wielded considerable influence due to her “overbearing nature”, according to Bernama news agency.

Although Rosmah held no official post, Ram said: ''She placed herself in a position where she was able to influence decisions in the public sector.''

If found guilty, Rosmah can face jail term up to 20 years and a fine. The corruption charges are related to the installation of solar energy systems in 369 rural schools in Bornean state of Sarawak.

Razak is himself facing seven charges -- including three for criminal breach of trust, one for abuse of power and three for money laundering.

The trial of Rosmah was set to commence last Monday but was postponed because of her health issues.