PUTRAJAYA: Former Prime Minister Datuk Seri Najib Razak did not have dictator-like powers at 1Malaysia Development Bhd (1MDB), according to former 1MDB chairman Tan Sri Che Lodin Wok Kamaruddin, who testified in the High Court.

Che Lodin explained that Article 117 of the company's Memorandum and Articles of Association (M&A) did not grant Najib absolute power. Under Article 117, key decisions needed the prime minister's approval, but not all 1MDB operations required this.

Che Lodin clarified that while Najib was the sole shareholder due to his role as finance minister, not every decision at 1MDB required his approval. He stated that the company's board held the decision-making power.

During cross-examination, Che Lodin denied that the prime minister made decisions for every matter at 1MDB. He emphasized that he aimed to present an accurate account of the company's operations during his tenure.

The court has previously heard claims that Najib held "ultimate power" over 1MDB. Najib faces charges of using his position to obtain RM2.28bil from 1MDB and 21 counts of money laundering. The trial continues.