10-1-2024 (SINGAPORE) The Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB) has concluded its investigation into Transport Minister S. Iswaran, and the case has been handed over to the Attorney-General’s Chambers (AGC), according to Education Minister Chan Chun Sing’s response to Progress Singapore Party Non-Constituency MP Hazel Poa’s inquiry during a parliamentary session on January 9.
In a written statement on behalf of the Prime Minister, Mr. Chan stated, “I understand that there is significant public interest in this matter. I want to assure everyone that this case will undergo the proper legal process.” He further mentioned that the CPIB had conducted a thorough and comprehensive investigation, and the AGC is currently reviewing the case.
Transport Minister S. Iswaran was arrested by the anti-corruption agency on July 11, 2023, and is presently out on bail. The specific details regarding the allegations against him have not been disclosed.
In an interview published on January 8 in The Straits Times and the Chinese-language daily Lianhe Zaobao, National Development Minister Desmond Lee described the corruption probe as a “very concerning development,” noting its significant impact on West Coast GRC.
West Coast GRC comprises five divisions: Ayer Rajah-Gek Poh, Boon Lay, Nanyang, Telok Blangah, and West Coast. Minister Desmond Lee oversees the Boon Lay ward, while Minister Iswaran is responsible for the West Coast ward.
The investigation into Minister Iswaran stems from a separate, unrelated inquiry. Further information regarding the nature of the investigation has not been disclosed to the public.
In July 2023, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong instructed Minister Iswaran to take a leave of absence until the investigation is completed. Additionally, his monthly pay was reduced to $8,500 until further notice, although he continues to receive his MP allowance.
As part of the corruption probe, property tycoon Ong Beng Seng was also arrested on July 11. Mr. Ong is known for bringing Formula One to Singapore.
Minister Iswaran has been a Member of Parliament for West Coast GRC since 1997, serving the constituency for the past 26 years. He was promoted to full minister in the Prime Minister’s Office in 2011 and has held ministerial positions in the Ministry of Education, Ministry of Home Affairs, and Ministry of Communications and Information.
While not unprecedented, investigations involving Cabinet ministers are rare in Singapore’s political landscape. The last time a Cabinet minister was involved in a CPIB probe was in November 1986, when then-National Development Minister Teh Cheang Wan was investigated for alleged bribery. However, Teh passed away before being charged in court.
