Singapore's Opposition Leader Pritam Singh Loses Title After Conviction for Perjury

Pritam Singh, Singapore's Opposition Leader, Stripped of Title by Prime Minister

Pritam Singh, the leader of the opposition in Singapore, has been stripped of his title by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong following a vote in parliament dominated by the People's Action Party (PAP). The vote took place on Wednesday as a result of Singh's conviction for perjury before a parliamentary committee. Singh has consistently maintained his innocence, remaining a Member of Parliament and the Secretary-General of the largest opposition party, the Workers' Party (WP). However, he will lose certain privileges, such as additional allowances and the right to respond first during parliamentary debates.

This represents one of the rare criminal convictions of a sitting opposition parliament member. Critics have previously accused the Singaporean government of using the judicial system against political opponents, allegations that authorities have consistently denied. Indranee Rajah, the Leader of the House, who initiated the debate, claimed that Singh's lies undermine the trust that Singaporeans have in parliament and accused him of failing to take responsibility. Singh defended himself during the debate, asserting that his 'conscience remains clear' and that he disagrees with the resolution stating his conduct was 'dishonest and incompatible.' He also pledged to continue his work as a parliamentarian.

After three hours of debate, parliament supported a motion that agreed Singh should not continue as the opposition leader. All 11 WP members present voted against the motion. Additionally, parliament agreed to review the implications for two other WP parliamentarians at a later time. Prime Minister Wong stated on Thursday that given Singh's conviction and the vote, he is 'not supported' to continue as the opposition leader. He also invited the WP to designate another parliamentarian to assume the title.

The WP has stated it will discuss this move and respond 'appropriately.' Previously, the party indicated it would conduct an internal review to determine whether Singh violated their rules. The party holds 12 seats in Singapore's 108-seat parliament.