Malaysia corruption protest draws thousands

Tens of thousands of people have gathered in the Malaysian capital to call for the resignation of Prime Minister Najib Razak. Dressed in the banned yellow T-shirts of Malaysia's reform movement, protesters ignored warnings from police who declared the rally illegal.

Demonstrators were prohibited from entering Kuala Lumpur's Independence Square for an overnight occupation of the area, with access blocked by security barriers and a large police presence. Protesters called for free and fair elections and an explanation for $US700m that ended up in the prime minister's personal accounts. Protesters hope to spark a 'people's power' movement to force Mr Najib out, but political analysts doubt he will be toppled.

Mr Najib, 62, says he has not taken any money for personal gain and sacked his deputy and other ministers who publicly questioned him. The attorney-general, who had been investigating the ruling party, has been replaced and authorities have also suspended two newspapers and blocked access to a website reporting on corruption claims.