It is unfair, inappropriate and illogical to blame and punish Umno over the 1MDB scandal, according to its deputy president Mohamad Hasan.

He said this is because Umno was not involved in the operation and transactions involving the wealth fund.

“Umno and I sympathise with the former president (Najib Abdul Razak) who is facing all these (charges related to 1MDB).

“Like all cases, they must be left to the authorities to handle them in a legitimate, proper and orderly manner,” he said, according to Umno Online.

Mohamad also noted that the US Department of Justice (DOJ) had indicted fugitive financier Jho Low and two bankers in relation to the scandal.

He said there would be repeated attempts to drag Umno into the scandal, which could impede its rejuvenation following the May 9 general election.

“What is important is that all quarters must appreciate that Umno has a bigger and more important agenda for the race, religion and country,” he said, adding that Umno must not be sidetracked from this objective.

As long as Umno is linked to the 1MBD scandal, Mohamad said the efforts to “treat, rehabilitate and develop” the party would be hindered and misunderstood.

The former Negeri Sembilan menteri besar also asked the Malay community to be fair towards the party.

“To the Malays, Umno is not asking for much.

“Just act in a rational and fair manner towards Umno. Give us the room to continue our contribution to the race, religion and country,” he added.

On the same note, Mohamad said he was praying that truth and justice would prevail with regard to Najib.

The former Umno president is currently facing 38 charges related to money laundering and criminal breach of trust.

Najib maintains that he is innocent.