In a statement, Syed Hussian denied any involvement by the government or political party in Farrah’s appointment or any other decision taken by Media Prima.

“Any suggestion that her appointment was the result of political meddling in Media Prima is unfortunate and totally unfounded,” he said.

“For the record, Media Prima is neither owned nor does it report to any political party, whether in the manner suggested in recent news reports or otherwise.”

He stressed that as a news organisation, NST’s editorial direction and the pursuit of synergies were constantly reviewed with the aim of growing visibility and readership.

“Changes to personnel, especially at the executive end of our talent pyramid, are an inevitable part of that review,” said Syed Hussian.

“These appointments are always done solely based on merit. It is on that basis that management has appointed Farrah as NST’s new group editor.”

Syed Hussian said Farrah brought with her more than 20 years of experience in newsroom operations, adding that she was also the first journalist from an English newspaper to win the prestigious Kajai Awards.

The Vibes previously reported that Ahmad Lokman Mansor was to be removed as NST group editor “due to alleged interference by Umno bigwigs”.

Quoting a source, the report claimed that Lokman was not protecting Umno’s interests after editorials supporting the judiciary, attorney-general and the rule of law “were allowed to see the light of day” in relation to Najib Razak’s SRC International case.

A former prime minister and ex-Umno president, Najib’s 12-year jail term and RM210 million fine in the SRC corruption case was upheld by the Federal Court on Aug 23.