Tan Chuan-Jin and Cheng Li: Government Must Address Lingering Questions

Resignations of Speaker of Parliament and MP Over Affair Raise Questions About Transparency and Accountability

The recent resignations of Speaker of Parliament Tan Chuan-Jin and Tampines GRC MP Cheng Li Hui over an extramarital affair have sparked debates about the handling of the situation by the ruling People’s Action Party (PAP) in Singapore. Political observers have questioned why it took so long for the affair to be made public, and whether the timing of the resignations was strategic.

Gaps in the Timeline and Lack of Transparency

Dr Gillian Koh, senior research fellow at the Institute of Policy Studies, has highlighted the gaps in the timeline and the information made public, stressing the need for addressing these issues to uphold high standards of personal conduct and transparency. It is crucial for the PAP to assure the public that there were no attempts to hide or conceal the affair until information leaks forced their hand.

Dr Mustafa Izzuddin, a senior international affairs analyst, has suggested that the timing of the announcement was driven by the belief that the situation had become untenable and needed to be dealt with proactively. However, critics argue that the revelations raise questions about the PAP’s ability to handle such controversies, especially in light of recent scandals and controversies involving other party members.

High Moral Standards and Expectations of Singaporean Leaders

In Singapore, there is a strong expectation among the public for their political leaders to uphold high moral standards. While an affair might not be considered newsworthy in other countries, the Singaporean public maintains a desire for their government to be firm and take a tough stance on such indiscretions.

Former nominated MP Zulkifli Baharudin acknowledges that human failure is inevitable, but insists that the government and political parties must accept the high moral standards expected by the public. The willingness of Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong to publicly address the affair demonstrates the government‘s commitment to uphold stringent standards of personal conduct in Singaporean politics.

The Need for Compassion and Understanding

Dr Chong Ja Ian, Associate Professor of Political Science at the National University of Singapore (NUS), argues that as long as there was no abuse of power, position, harassment, coercion, or force, the affair should remain a private matter between the individuals involved. He questions why politicians need to be held to a higher moral standard than anyone else, and emphasizes that personal situations can be complex.

These differing perspectives highlight the challenge of balancing public expectations of high moral standards with the recognition of individual shortcomings and complexities. While the government and political parties must maintain a strong stance against misconduct, there should also be room for empathy and understanding in addressing personal matters.

Impact on the People’s Action Party

The affair between Tan Chuan-Jin and Cheng Li Hui is seen by some experts as a slip, rather than a crisis, for the People’s Action Party. The PAP’s history of strong political leadership and parliamentary dominance has allowed it to weather previous challenges.

However, Dr Tan Ern Ser, Associate Professor of Sociology at the National University of Singapore (NUS), acknowledges that no vetting process is perfect, and some cases of misconduct may be difficult to detect. In moving forward, he suggests that the PAP must engage in critical reflection and assure Singaporeans of its commitment to upholding the highest moral and political standards.

Dr Mustafa Izzuddin emphasizes the need for the party to consolidate its support base, maintain favorable domestic public opinion, and uphold the political trust of the people. The PAP’s ability to confront adversity while remaining a strong and united force has been demonstrated throughout its history.

Conclusion

The resignations of Speaker of Parliament Tan Chuan-Jin and Tampines GRC MP Cheng Li Hui over an affair have brought questions of transparency, accountability, and moral standards to the forefront of Singaporean politics. While the Singaporean public expects high moral standards from their leaders, there is also a need for compassion and understanding in dealing with personal matters.

The timing and handling of the affair by the ruling People’s Action Party have raised concerns and fuelled debates. It is essential for the party to address the gaps in the timeline and demonstrate a commitment to transparency. Moving forward, the PAP must engage in critical reflection, consolidate support, and uphold the highest moral and political standards to maintain its political dominance.