In response, Dr. Koh emphasized that the principles of honesty, integrity, and probity are paramount, as stated by DPM Wong earlier today. These principles apply to everyone, regardless of their position. No one is exempt from being held accountable.
The greatest challenge lies in managing public perceptions that the PAP has failed to meet its own high standards, according to Prof Tan from SMU.
Furthermore, he believes that the ongoing investigation is bound to become a talking point during the upcoming elections, sparking discussions on the need for additional checks and balances.
Mr. Zulkifli expressed concern that these recent cases could undermine public trust if not handled appropriately by the Government.
He also stressed the importance of holding the new generation of leaders to the same exacting standards as their predecessors. Any shortcomings will not go unnoticed.
According to him, people are questioning whether the party has changed or lost its traditional values due to generational shifts.
Prof Tan from SMU noted that the stakes will be higher in West Coast GRC during the next general election. Mr. Iswaran has been the anchor minister in this constituency for over two decades.
In the 2020 General Election, West Coast GRC saw the PAP’s narrowest victory, winning 51.68% of the vote against the Progress Singapore Party team.
Prof Tan believes that any opposition party contesting there will undoubtedly make the corruption probe a key election issue, linking it to the need for more opposition representation in Parliament. However, he cautioned against reducing the entire campaign to just this one issue, given that a thorough investigation is ongoing and no cover-up has been detected.
He added, “The western half of the island has traditionally been a stronghold for the PAP, but it may be starting to show some vulnerability.”
Prof Tan from NUS pointed out that even if Mr. Iswaran is cleared of any wrongdoing, his involvement in the case could still be a distraction, as suspicions may persist in the public’s mind.
He highlighted that in a potentially “swing” constituency, a slight shift in votes can have a significant impact.
Residents in West Coast GRC, who spoke to The Straits Times, expressed shock at Mr. Iswaran’s involvement in the CPIB case. However, they believed that it would not affect the well-being of the constituency’s residents.
- Additional reporting by Mahima Srinidhi Hari and Suzanne Chan
