by SHAFIQQUL ALIFF / pic TMR

FORMER Prime Minister Datuk Seri Mohd Najib Razak (picture) was disappointed by the Federal Court’s decision that did not allow his lawyer Hisyam Teh Poh Teik to discharge from the council as Najib’s defender in SRC International Sdn Bhd’s final appeal.

Najib said he wanted to record his objections in the highest terms in an appeal for a high-profile and very complex case. His lead counsel had indicated that he did not want to proceed as the team had limited time to prepare, but unfortunately, the court did not allow it.

“Therefore, I cannot present my defence today and only the prosecution can present their arguments for a high-profile case like this.

“I am not able to defend myself, even though I believe Hisyam and his team are capable of making a strong defence if their application for adjournment is granted.

“In reality, my life, freedom and right to a fair trial are at stake. I was left defenceless. I believe I have a strong and reliable case if Hisyam and his team were given reasonable time,” Najib said during a press conference.

Meanwhile, Hisyam said he was not ready because of the limited time required for the trial and he would not make any arguments in defence of his client.

“In this situation, I cannot play an effective role. Basically, Najib has no legal representation,” he said.

He added that in such a high-profile case, it was “unprecedented” in crime that the accusation is proven without a lawyer to provide legal representation, which is a serious matter.

“I hope the court will take this matter into account and make corrective measures at some point,” he said.

At the same time, the Pekan MP also said that such a thing has never happened, where in a crime, the accused does not have a lawyer and he has no other choice but to appoint Hisyam and Datuk Zaid Ibrahim as he needs a different perspective.

Earlier, Chief Justice Tun Tengku Maimun Tuan Mat said the court unanimously held that Hisyam failed to disclose sufficient reasons to justify his withdrawal bid and that he should continue to represent Najib in the appeal.