Edwin Tong Condemns Pritam Singh’s Comments on Court Ruling

Law Minister Edwin Tong has publicly criticized the Leader of the Opposition, Pritam Singh, following remarks he made regarding the judiciary. During an interview on Channel News Asia’s program, The Assembly, Singh suggested that “the court of public opinion can be a bigger court than any court in the world.” Tong described this statement as “outrageous, plainly wrong and completely unacceptable” during a press conference on November 8, 2023.

Tong’s condemnation came in the context of Singh’s ongoing legal challenges. Singh was convicted earlier this year for lying to a parliamentary committee regarding former MP Raeesah Khan‘s false statements in parliament. He received a fine of S$14,000 (approximately US$10,800) after a trial that Tong emphasized was thorough and transparent. “Mr. Singh was investigated and then he was charged. He went through a full and open trial and was convicted by the court,” Tong stated, underscoring the legitimacy of the judicial process.

The High Court is currently deliberating on Singh’s appeal against his conviction, following a hearing held earlier this week. In his remarks during The Assembly, Singh expressed indifference to being labeled a liar, asserting that such criticisms were expected in the realm of politics. “You answer to your conscience first,” he remarked, emphasizing that he felt secure in his integrity despite public scrutiny.

Tong countered Singh’s assertion about the court of public opinion, warning that undermining the judiciary poses a significant threat to the rule of law in Singapore. “This is a very dangerous idea,” he explained. “We have laws, and in Singapore, the rule of law is a cornerstone of our system.” Tong stressed that the judiciary functions independently of political influence, noting that public trust in legal institutions is paramount.

He further remarked that Singh’s framing of his situation as a political attack mirrors responses from populist politicians globally. Such rhetoric, Tong argued, suggests a belief that some individuals may be above the law, which he firmly rejected. “This kind of irresponsible politics should have no place in Singapore,” he asserted, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to honesty and integrity.

According to Tong, remarks like Singh’s not only delegitimize the court system but also undermine public confidence in law enforcement and judicial processes. “In Singapore, the courts decide cases based on facts and the law. No one is above the law, not the leader of the opposition, not any minister,” he concluded, reiterating the importance of maintaining respect for the judiciary.

This exchange highlights a significant moment in Singaporean politics, as the relationship between public opinion and legal authority continues to be a contentious issue. The outcome of Singh’s appeal remains pending, with potential implications for his political career and the broader political landscape in Singapore.