On February 17, 2025, Pritam Singh, the leader of Singapore’s opposition Workers’ Party, was found guilty on two counts of providing false testimony to a parliamentary committee. This conviction arises from his involvement in a case concerning former party member Raeesah Khan, who admitted to lying in parliament in 2021. The verdict carries significant implications, potentially barring Singh from participating in the upcoming general elections.
Background of the Case
The charges against Singh, 48, stem from his alleged false testimony during a 2021 parliamentary committee investigation into Raeesah Khan’s misconduct. Khan had falsely claimed to have accompanied a sexual assault victim to the police, alleging insensitive remarks by officers. She later confessed to fabricating the story and resigned from her parliamentary position. Singh maintained that he had advised Khan to come forward with the truth; however, the court found evidence suggesting he had instructed her to maintain the false narrative.
Legal Implications and Sentencing
Under Singaporean law, a Member of Parliament (MP) faces disqualification if convicted and fined more than S$10,000 or sentenced to imprisonment exceeding one year. Prosecutors have recommended a fine of S$7,000 for each of Singh’s two charges, totaling S$14,000. If the court imposes this penalty, Singh would be barred from contesting in the general elections scheduled by November 2025.
Political Ramifications
The Workers’ Party, under Singh’s leadership, achieved a historic milestone in the 2020 elections by securing 10 parliamentary seats, the most significant opposition presence since Singapore’s independence in 1965. This conviction poses a substantial challenge to the party’s momentum and could influence its performance in the forthcoming elections. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong’s People’s Action Party (PAP) continues to dominate Singapore’s political landscape, and Singh’s potential disqualification may further consolidate PAP’s position.
Singh’s Response and Future Prospects
Despite the conviction, Singh has expressed his intention to appeal the verdict and participate in the upcoming elections. Addressing the media, he stated, “I intend to contest in the general elections.” The outcome of his appeal will be pivotal in determining his political future and the broader dynamics of opposition politics in Singapore.
Pritam Singh’s conviction for lying to parliament marks a critical juncture in Singapore’s political narrative. As the nation approaches its next general election, the ramifications of this verdict will resonate through its political discourse, potentially reshaping the opposition’s role and influence in the city-state’s governance.
