SINGAPORE (Reuters) – Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has acknowledged that a series of political scandals, including corruption and the resignation of senior lawmakers, have been a setback for the ruling party in Singapore. In an interview with the BBC, Wong, who is expected to become the country’s next prime minister, emphasized that the government is committed to regaining the trust of Singaporeans.
Wong stated, “If I do have a chance to take over [as prime minister], I know that it’s not just about me taking over because I also have to earn that trust from Singaporeans themselves. I have to win their confidence and mandate to lead the country.” Singapore is required to hold a general election by 2025.
In recent weeks, Singapore, known for its political stability, has faced a corruption investigation involving transport minister S. Iswaran and the resignations of two ruling party lawmakers, including the house speaker, due to an inappropriate relationship.
Concerns have been raised by voters regarding the delayed disclosure of Iswaran’s arrest, which took three days for the authorities to reveal. Additionally, questions have been raised as to why the lawmakers were allowed to continue in their positions despite Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong being aware of their relationship since 2020.
Wong explained that the anti-graft bureau chose to disclose Iswaran’s arrest three days after it occurred due to “operational considerations”. Regarding the lawmakers, he acknowledged that the People’s Action Party, which has governed Singapore without interruption since 1959, is aware of the impact its actions have on innocent individuals, including families and children.
(Reporting by Xinghui Kok; Editing by Kanupriya Kapoor)
Credit: The Star : News Feed
