Top of FormSingaporean cabinet minister Subramaniam Iswaran has resigned from his government position after facing charges of corruption, marking a rare occurrence in a country known for its clean governance. Iswaran, who played a significant role in overseeing Singapore’s tourism industry, pleaded not guilty to 27 charges, including the accusation of “obtaining gratification as a public servant.” The charges allege that Iswaran received gifts exceeding S$160,000 in exchange for advancing the business interests of property tycoon Ong Beng Seng. This development has shocked the nation, which prides itself on its reputation for honesty and incorruptible governance.
The charge sheets released by prosecutors reveal specific allegations against Iswaran, including the acceptance of gifts such as tickets to West End musicals and football matches. The charges also indicate a connection between Iswaran and Ong Beng Seng, who was instrumental in bringing the Formula One Grand Prix to Singapore in 2008. Iswaran has pleaded not guilty to all charges, and in a letter to Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, he asserted his innocence while rejecting the charges.
Also Read: FIA Declines Return of CDA’s Files Amid Rs. 69 Billion Corruption Scandal
Iswaran, a veteran of the ruling People’s Action Party (PAP), had been on a leave of absence since his arrest last year. Despite the leave, he continued to receive a monthly salary of S$8,500, prompting discussions about Singapore’s approach to combating corruption. Singaporean lawmakers, including ministers, earn over S$45,000 a month. Iswaran’s decision to resign from his government post comes with the commitment to return his salaries and allowances since the start of the investigations in July.
Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong acknowledged Iswaran’s resignation, emphasizing that the government has handled the case rigorously to uphold the integrity of the party and the nation’s reputation for honesty and incorruptibility. This incident marks a rare instance of a corruption probe involving a minister in Singapore, with the last such case occurring in 1986 when national development minister Teh Cheang Wan faced investigation and took his own life before being charged.
