The People’s Action Party’s (PAP) stance on corruption is non-negotiable and part of its DNA. There can be no compromise, relaxation or fudging the issue; no matter the political price, said Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong.
“The PAP government will continue to do everything we can to uphold the highest standards of integrity, incorruptibility and propriety. That’s how we maintain the trust that Singaporeans have placed in us,” he said.
His remarks came hours after former transport minister S. Iswaran was handed 27 charges in court, including two counts of corruption.
DPM Wong said the party was “disappointed that Iswaran leaves politics under these circumstances”, and he has no doubt that it would affect party morale.
“But we cannot allow this political hit to compromise our zero-tolerance stance against corruption.”
When asked, DPM Wong said Iswaran’s case would have “no impact” on succession and the leadership transition.
He said it was announced that the PAP’s leadership transition will take place before the next general election, and before the party conference in November 2024.
“This plan remains on track,” DPM Wong said.
On how the case would affect the PAP’s plans on when to call the general election, DPM Wong said the Government’s focus is to press on with its work.
Mr Chee Hong Tat, who was acting transport minister during Iswaran’s leave of absence, has been appointed minister for transport, the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) said.
Mr Chee, who has been promoted to full minister, will also be appointed second minister for finance.
Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu will take on Iswaran’s other portfolio: trade relations.
Their new appointments take effect from Thursday, said the PMO in its statement.
The Straits Times
