Najib’s appeal to reinstate RM1.9m lawsuit dismissed

Najib’s appeal to reinstate RM1.9m lawsuit dismissed

KUALA LUMPUR: Former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak has seen his attempt to revive a RM1.9 million civil lawsuit against Thomas fail in court, marking another legal setback in the longstanding financial dispute between the two parties.

The appeal, which sought to overturn a previous ruling that struck out the lawsuit, was dismissed by the court after careful consideration of the arguments presented by Najib’s legal team. The decision confirms that the earlier dismissal stands, effectively closing this chapter of the case unless new evidence or grounds emerge.

Najib’s lawyers had argued that the initial court ruling did not fully address certain points of contention in the claim, and that reinstating the case was necessary to allow a proper hearing. They maintained that their client should have the opportunity to pursue the matter in full.

However, the presiding judge found the appeal unconvincing, noting that the legal basis for reopening the lawsuit was insufficient. The judgment underscores the principle that civil cases cannot be repeatedly revived without substantive justification, and that courts require strong reasons before reconsidering previously decided matters.

A legal observer noted that the ruling reinforces the need for claims to comply with procedural rules from the outset, and that attempts to relitigate cases that have already been dismissed face a high standard in Malaysian courts.

Najib’s team indicated that they would review the ruling and determine whether any further legal recourse is available, although no immediate plans to file additional applications were announced. “We are carefully assessing our options in light of the court’s decision,” a legal representative said.

The case has drawn attention due to the significant sum involved and Najib’s profile as a former Prime Minister. While the civil matter is now formally closed, analysts say it highlights the importance of adherence to legal procedures and the challenges involved in pursuing high-value claims in court.

Meanwhile, Thomas’s legal counsel welcomed the outcome, describing it as a reaffirmation of judicial process and finality. “The decision demonstrates that courts maintain consistency and uphold the rule of law, ensuring that cases are not kept open indefinitely,” they said.

The ruling does not impact any other ongoing investigations or proceedings involving Najib, which continue separately and are subject to different legal standards. Both parties are expected to respect the court’s decision as final regarding this particular civil claim.