MPs emphasize the principle of presumption of innocence, opting to await investigation outcomes before deciding on disciplinary actions.
SINGAPORE: Parliament has voted against the Progress Singapore Party’s (PSP) motion to suspend Transport Minister S Iswaran from his role as a Member of Parliament (MP) while he is under investigation for alleged corruption. Instead, lawmakers passed a counter-motion by Leader of the House Indranee Rajah to address the matter once investigations conclude.
The PSP motion, tabled by Non-Constituency MP Hazel Poa, aimed to halt Mr. Iswaran’s MP allowance during the investigation, citing prudent use of taxpayers’ money. Ms. Poa argued that suspending the allowance, with reimbursement if he is cleared, was a more transparent approach than clawing back funds after a conviction.
Ms. Indranee countered that suspending an MP is a punitive measure and must be grounded in legal principles. She highlighted that previous cases involving MPs under investigation did not warrant suspension until charges were filed.
Parliamentary Debate Highlights
During the debate, Ms. Indranee raised concerns over setting a dangerous precedent, emphasizing that the principle of presumption of innocence must guide Parliament’s decisions. She questioned whether the PSP’s motion applied universally, noting that MPs from other parties, including Workers’ Party MPs under investigation, have not faced similar calls for suspension.
Leader of the Opposition Pritam Singh echoed the sentiment, stating that premature judgment risks undermining the electoral mandate given to Mr. Iswaran by voters. He also highlighted potential misuse of such measures by future governments against opposition MPs.
Ms. Poa maintained that her motion was rooted in concerns about taxpayers’ money and Singapore’s zero-tolerance stance on corruption. She also pointed out that police officers under investigation are often suspended with reduced pay, suggesting similar standards could apply to MPs.
Current Status of Mr. Iswaran
Since his arrest in July, Mr. Iswaran has been on a leave of absence, drawing a reduced ministerial pay of S$8,500 monthly while continuing to receive his full annual MP allowance of S$192,500. His ministerial duties are being handled by Acting Transport Minister Chee Hong Tat, and his constituency responsibilities are covered by other MPs from West Coast GRC.
Outcome and Implications
Parliament voted along party lines, with PSP MPs supporting their motion and all other MPs voting for Ms. Indranee’s counter-motion. The decision reflects Parliament’s commitment to due process and the rule of law while addressing public concerns about accountability.
The ruling People’s Action Party has assured that appropriate actions, including clawbacks of allowances, will be considered if charges are brought against Mr. Iswaran.
