Singapore’s Transport Minister S. Iswaran has resigned amidst corruption charges, marking the city-state’s most significant political scandal in nearly four decades. Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong accepted Iswaran’s resignation, emphasizing the commitment to upholding the government’s integrity and reputation for honesty.
Charged with 27 counts, including corruption and obtaining perks like musical and soccer match tickets in the U.K., Iswaran denies the allegations and vows to clear his name. This is the first major ministerial involvement in a graft probe since 1986.
The charges against Iswaran range from 2015 to May 2023, including corruption, obtaining valuable items, and obstructing justice. The legal battle is also seen as a political challenge for the government to regain trust amid a series of controversies.
As Singapore aims for a leadership transition in November, Deputy Lawrence Wong is expected to succeed Lee. The corruption scandal follows other shocks within the ruling People’s Action Party (PAP), impacting party morale.
Iswaran’s interactions with property tycoon Ong Beng Seng, arrested alongside him in July, are scrutinized. Charges detail favors, such as tickets to musicals and soccer matches, a private jet flight, and a luxury hotel stay. While the impact on the F1 contracts remains unclear, preparations for the Singapore Grand Prix continue.
The Attorney-General’s Chambers will decide on Ong and others after Iswaran’s case concludes. Iswaran plans to return his salary since July, reflecting an 82% cut, in line with Singapore’s measures to prevent corruption among government leaders.
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