The courtroom as theatre
Friday, 30 May 2008, 5:05 pm |
Farquhar
The real loser from the Lees’ defamation case isn’t Chee Soon Juan
In the climax of Frank Capra’s “Mr Smith Goes to Washington” (1939), the virtuous Senator Jefferson Smith faces off against a vile political establishment in one of America’s highest court of public opinion - the Senate. Naturally, he prevails against the odds by shaming his chief nemesis, a corrupt Senator, into confessing his misdeeds.
Some of these elements - most crucially, the happy ending - are missing from the case of Lee Kuan Yew and Lee Hsien Loong vs Chee Soon Juan and the Singapore Democratic Party, a defamation suit brought on by the Lees for an allegedly defamatory article published in SDP’s publication The New Democrat in April 2006.
Dr Chee probably does not fit the notion of a “virtuous” politician for some Singaporeans, having been painted for years by the establishment as a contemptible figure with a propensity for deceit. His antagonists also do not fit the bill of “corrupt” senators, high-minded and bullying though they may be. And Dr Chee’s struggle takes place in a courtroom rather than in Singapore’s legislature, since he doesn’t get a look-in at the latter.
Yet in both contexts the protagonists were striving to win the larger battle for the audience beyond their respective theatres of contention. That’s why the Lees took on the case in the first place, to prove to Singaporeans — and to a wider international audience — that Dr Chee’s insinuations about their character were defamatory and groundless. That’s also why Dr Chee pushed hard for the case to be heard in open court and cross-examined the Lees himself — to continue his quest to bring to public attention questions about the way the Lees have run Singapore.
The truth probably lies somewhere in between what the Lees and Dr Chee are saying. The elder Mr Lee is probably right in saying that some of Dr Chee’s accusations were baseless, but it is difficult to prove that Dr Chee made them out of malice rather than a genuine concern for the public interest. Dr Chee’s track record can be read as a real — though somewhat inept — attempt to do just that. Furthermore, the extent of the damage to the Lees’ reputation is probably exaggerated. The Minister Mentor’s argument that the support that the SDP enjoyed in the 2006 elections (it got 23% of the votes in Sembawang GRC) was proof that a substantial number of Singaporeans believed Dr Chee’s accusations is decidedly unconvincing, as voters might just as well have plumped for the SDP because they disliked Mr Lee’s People’s Action Party.
In reality, The New Democrat has a tiny reach that was mostly garnered by SDP members hawking it on the streets. During the hearing Dr Chee’s co-defendant, his sister Chee Siok Chin estimated that only 5,000 copies of the publication with the offending article had been sold. More importantly, the offending article did not seem to have any noticeable impact. For example, it hasn’t really been cited since on the blogosphere or in mainstream publications for that matter.
Similarly, Dr Chee was not wrong in tapping the unease which many Singaporeans have about the political establishment’s apparent unaccountability. The public deserves more answers about the way the country is run than the Lees have cared to give. But Dr Chee is probably guilty of rashly playing up some of his claims to attract public attention. Hence, it was unsurprising that he lacked the incontrovertible evidence needed to surmount the onerous burden on the defendant in a country with some of the toughest libel laws around.
So he adopted a two-pronged defence by trying to show that there was no malice involved in the offending article while casting doubt on the integrity of the Lees to show that the article was not completely groundless. Hence, Dr Chee’s closing submission read like a testimonial about his own character and he categorically told both plaintiffs that he did not “hate” them. His questions to the plaintiffs, which apparently covered the gamut from the secrecy of Singapore’s sovereign wealth funds to ministerial pay, as well as the validity of the elder Mr Lee’s award from Transparency International’s Malaysian chapter, were probably aimed at establishing some credence for the accusations made in the offending article.
Given Dr Chee’s tactics, it was not surprising that the proceedings soon descended into theatrics. The judge upheld objection after objection by the plaintiffs’ counsel to Dr Chee’s questions on the grounds of irrelevance. At times, Dr Chee visibly tried to bait the plaintiffs, such as goading the younger Mr Lee to be a “real leader” by coming out from behind his counsel. The Lees responded in kind, with the elder calling Dr Chee a “near-psychopath” and the younger Mr Lee accusing him of spreading “poisonous lies”. Despite these colourful exchanges, the outcome of the case was never really in doubt, though to add insult to injury the judge tried Dr Chee and Ms Chee for contempt.
Whither the fallout?
However, the repercussions beyond the present case will not be as clear cut. The first issue is its effect on public opinion. Since what counts is whose message gets out more effectively to the public, the Lees appear to have the upper hand because the mainstream press mostly played up their side of the story. In particular, the punctilious Straits Times distinguished itself with some rather one-sided reporting, blaming Dr Chee squarely for propagating a “farce” while devoting most of its coverage to the elder Mr Lee’s remarks about Dr Chee’s character.
Other papers adopted a rather blasé attitude that was nevertheless still skewed towards the Lees, though it was noteworthy that Today gave more focus to Dr Chee’s remarks and his side of the case.
Nonetheless, it can’t be ruled out that Dr Chee has drawn some positive attention to his tenacious struggle, given that his side of the story is easily available on the Internet. It is also uncertain how many new converts the Lees would attract to their side, since those already receptive to Dr Chee’s message will probably be difficult to convince. As Farquhar argued in last week’s column (“The charge of the Chee brigade”), the present case will probably end up strengthening the resolve of Dr Chee and the SDP in continuing their confrontational politics. Amidst his almost futile struggle with the powers-that-be the fictitious Senator Smith was heartened into continuing his fight by an encouraging look from a supporter. Dr Chee might similarly be invigorated by those Singaporeans who back his bold stance. Since he’s already bankrupt, he doesn’t have that much to lose anyway.
The second issue concerns the consequences for Singapore’s public institutions. Here is where the real loser can be discerned. It is arguably the courts, which have once again been used for the kind of theatrics that are better displayed in a proper political arena rather than within chambers.
The present case, which featured the first ever cross-examination of a serving leader in Singapore by his political opponent, has set an unhealthy precedent. It is divergent to the purpose of the courts, which is to provide a means to resolve disputes and not a conduit for amplifying political debate. Such continued abuse risks undermining faith in the impartiality of the judiciary. But the fact that the ruling cabal has closed off nearly all other avenues for political contention has, in a sense, necessitated this showdown in the courtroom.
Both sides have resorted to the courts because a more proper venue, namely the court of public opinion, is not available to them. It’s unavailable because the paternalistic instincts of the Lees do not allow the requisite freedom of speech necessary to empower such a court. However, the justification for such paternalism over free speech has grown weaker over the years, given the more educated populace and the advent of the Internet. Better to liberalise freedom of expression rather than to allow Singapore’s public institutions to continue on this degenerate path. That’s what the fictitious Senator Smith as well as the real-life Dr Chee are ultimately fighting for.
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Who is Farquhar? Read about him here.
He can be reached at : farquhar.toc@gmail.com
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The Chee-lee saga makes for a hot combination. Whilst the newspapers and the PAP govt is often regarded as biased, I’d like to remind myself of what Chiam See Tong, a respected six term opposition MP has to say about Chee:
“Why should people join a party where a leader goes on a hunger strike and does foolish things like that or you have a vicechairman who has been jailed … Who wants to join his party?” - CST, 16 July 1996
“Chee had ‘usurped’ his position as secretary-general of the SDP.” - CST, July 1996.
“I am saddened by the way the SDP is run and the present SDP CEC knows that I have a greater moral claim to the leadership than anyone of them, either individually or as a group, collectively. I tell the present collective leadership I want the leadership of the party back. On their part they want me out of the party. I want the people of Singapore to decide. The SDP has the largest number of Members of Parliament in Parliament. It is the most influential opposition party in Singapore. Whatever happens to the leadership or the direction taken by the SDP the effect of which must concern Singaporeans. To me the question of the leadership of the party must not be decided by the current CEC. The current CEC has been condemned by Parliament which represents the majority of the people of Singapore and as a result the current SDP CEC has no more moral authority to decide on the leadership of the SDP. To me, the people of Singapore must decide on who they want to lead the SDP. Therefore, I want the people of Singapore to decide on the choice of their leaders in the SDP.” - CST, 1996. Just think who decided to make Chee, SDP sec gen?
Not many people remember 1994 where the CEC (under Chee as sec gen) tried to remove Chiam as Potong Pasir MP despite he being elected democratically by his constituents. Not many people would remember Chiam having to go to the courts to stop that removal. See Chiam See Tong v Singapore Democratic Party
[1994] 1 SLR 278.
Not many people remember 1997 where Chiam was forced to sue Ling, Wong, Chee Soon Juan et al for defamation and WON. See Chiam See Tong v Ling, Wong, Chee and Others [1997] 1 SLR 648.
Not many people will know that Chee’s current defamation suit whilst being his 7th and 8th (all of which he has lost) consisted only of 4 by PAP politicians in that capacity.
Chee has been fined and jailed for bringing disrepute to the judiciary. He continues to do so at every opportunity. He has no hesitation to bad mouth Singapore or Singaporeans who exercise their democratic right to vote.
The courtroom as theatre? One person has tried his very best to make it so.
Lim,
I know you do not support SDP. I myself do not see Chiam as an opposition leader either, he has failed to behave as one. What did he do that is worth mentioning except his continued hold on Potong Pasir?
Why bother to quote what he said? Why not quote what JBJ said?
Is Chiam an outstanding opposition leader? After so many elections, it has been very clear about his postion on Singapore politics. Never push for change, remains as it is. A Big Sitting DUCK!
Dr Chee to me is very different politician than two currently elected opposition. He may not be in the same class as JBJ but definitely he voiced out many more issues only people like us dared even ask our MP. What Chiam should say about himself is the regret of not making a stand for change. He has wasted his years as a politician and i frankly tell you i dont even bother to respect him as an oppostion leader. Even to remember his deed in the future? Nah!
And why are you sadden by how SDP is run? Do you expect SDP to flourish under Draconian rules in Singapore? Maybe like a WP? So inept and useless? WP is more of a clone of PAP and even been praised by MM. Imagined it?
Have you read both side of the story? Why not pay a visit to SDP website to read more…there are copies of declassified information from London regarding our dear MM. Why not read more first to comment? I hope you are not the brainwash readers from Shit Times.
If hunger strikes and peaceful protests are foolish, then perhaps there isn’t a INDEPENDENT & DEMOCRATIC INDIA to be found on the MAP as GHANDI must be the biggest fool on earth. Does jailing a politcal activists prevent people to join a party? Quoting Chiam is the foolish thing to do. Maybe CHIAM can propose better ways to get messages across to the gahmen and people? He can come out and show all Singaporeans how it can be done.
I agreed with Farquhar that CHEE might not be the big loser!
I see CHEE as having lost the battle but he might actally win the WAR in the long term! The support he gets from WP and SDA are NIL. So much so for OPPOSITION unity. Ain’t the questions asked by SDP the same questions posed by WP and Mr Chiam? Now people can see what kind of OPPOSITION we have. Let the people with eyes and ears decide what kind of Singapore they want?
I was also hoping someone from WP can oust the inept LTK out of the party. Too bad. There ain’t a second DR Chee.
FG
While Chee has ideas and sometimes, content, what he lacks most as a politician is finesse. pick the right battles at the right time, and
the things he’s done - they left the wrong impression with me, and likely, with most thinking singaporeans.
“Chee has been fined and jailed for bringing disrepute to the judiciary. He continues to do so at every opportunity. He has no hesitation to bad mouth Singapore or Singaporeans who exercise their democratic right to vote.”
So who bad mouth who exactly ? If Dr Chee talk rot, we condemn him. Unfortunately he is not. You know it and we know it at the ground level, and we could we relate to that, don’t we ? If Dr Chee really talk rot then why we here to bad mouth the government ? Aren’t we double standard too ?
We do not bad mouth the government if government is just and fair, and govern the country like a proper government. Do everyone think that we better nothing to do then criticize the government ? Come on, every here is educated and the level of discussion show here. The same issue raise by Dr Chee is the same thing we speak here, don’t it ?
No government is perfect but we think this government should do better with their million dollars salary rather than asking the citizen to continue to eat bitter pills and give no choice as reason. This is not leadership. This is incompetence and ineptness. Think about that. We are just one tiny red dot with no natural disaster to speak of. So why can’t the government do better ? The thing that I find is this government is complacent and has full of status quo. Throwing money here and there and expect miracle is what our millions dollar scholars good at ?
People could just quote how good opposition party is ? But what did they really done to bring it to international level ? We know our opposition party is inept when what they do is just as watchdog and that is why the government look down at them. What are they watching exactly when the government hide the information from them, and the opp party is helpless with lack of information ? No info from GIC, GLC, Temasek, reserve, so what are they watching ?
Yesterday, someone in his twenties commit suicide in the block beside Clementi Community Centre by jumping the HDB and I witness his plain lifeness body. So why did he commit suicide ? Over stress, money , job ? And it is pathetic to find that there is no mention of it in newspaper today. Shocking to me… I wonder how many of this case going on everyday and left unreport in MSM. Do we have society problem due to the economic growth.
Now with these report and info masked, what are opp party watching and scrutinise exactly ?
agyee,
Did you get that impression from SHIT TIMES? Most people think badly of DR CHEE are readers of ST. It is difficult to pick the right place and time to express the message to average singaporeans when most rules are against DR CHEE. It is just not his turf to begin with. What he does is he choose the remaining alternatives! Pleasant or not he carried it out and getting bankrupt is easily anyone’s guess. I truly find him a real opposition figure and second best to JBJ. Tell me CHIAM or LTK can do a DR Cheet? They have immunity as MPs of asking hard questions yet they pale in comparison to him. They are the ones i have BAD IMPRESSIONS.
Dr. Chee has NOTHING to lose. Whatever the outcome Dr. Chee has proven to the world through his website the ridiculous situation in Singapore courts when it comes to political matters.
Only Singaporeans reading the state controlled media only would have got
an opinion like yours.
Chiam and Low are local councillors, They can’t produce any results at national level. Potong Pasir will fall back to pap if Chiam still can’t groom a capable person to take over. Chiam and Low are not eloquent, so in parliament their performance are so so only. If Dr Chee is voted into parliament, wow, we can see a more lively debate in parliament. Many pap MPs when they speak in parliament like kayu only. They were voted in by walkover…. so no fighting experience.
I think Chee is a nut case.
I have no respect for someone who got the leadership of a poltical party through the back door. Lets not forget that Chiam See Tong built up the SDP only to have it taken by Chee who has yet to prove himself in the poltical arena.
If I remember, the last time he stood for election in a single seat ward, he only got around 20 odd % of the votes.
Hi Fever Guy, I respect your opinion. In response, I would highlight the following:
Your view: I know you do not support SDP.
Ironically, I agreed with what the SDP did until 1993.
Your view: I myself do not see Chiam as an opposition leader either, he has failed to behave as one. What did he do that is worth mentioning except his continued hold on Potong Pasir?
As spoken, most people have forgetten that it took Chiam 13 years to establish a party that garnered the most number of opposition MPs in Singapore’s history. I believe getting people elected as MPs is a role of an opposition leader so I don’t view him as a failure. If Chee had usurped his role as sec gen of the SDP, it is anyone’s guess how the face of opposition politics might have looked.
I have the utmost respect for any MP but more so for an opposition MP that has withstood 6 terms of PAP political pressure, an internal rebellion, once built an electable opposition and who is an MP who has earned the respect of not only his constituents but many a Singaporean.
Your view: Why bother to quote what he said? Why not quote what JBJ said?
I have respect for JBJ as not only an MP but the first opposition MP since Singapore’s independence. Nevertheless, I quote Chiam as a 6 term MP, an MP that was once acknowledge as the official opposition leader and who was once sadly, the mentor of the person that we refer to.
Your view: Is Chiam an outstanding opposition leader? After so many elections, it has been very clear about his postion on Singapore politics. Never push for change, remains as it is. A Big Sitting DUCK!
When Chiam headed the opposition in 1991, was he a big sitting duck? Was not the then PM Goh forced to institute the GRC to counter his by election strategy? Who was the politician that cut off he’s legs and forced him to quit the party that he took 13 years to build? Do we expect him to just transfer to another party and create success overnight? You sound like a PAP supporter indeed.
Your view: Dr Chee to me is very different politician than two currently elected opposition.
Oh yes. Besides not being elected, he has also achieved 8 defamation suits, jailed 3 times and more to come, made himself bankrupt. Managed to solicit negative responses from foreign politicians and far willing to bad mouth Singapore when he can.
Your view: He may not be in the same class as JBJ but definitely he voiced out many more issues only people like us dared even ask our MP. What Chiam should say about himself is the regret of not making a stand for change. He has wasted his years as a politician and i frankly tell you i dont even bother to respect him as an oppostion leader. Even to remember his deed in the future? Nah!
Wow. It doesn’t take a genius to talk, just an empty vessel. Chee may have raised a lot of issues but are these issues that Singaporeans care about? Hiding attempts to circumvent laws on public speaking in the guise of raising issues on cost increases cuts no ice for me.
On your views regarding Chiam, I think more importantly, the voters of Potong Pasir have disagreed with your view for 6 terms.
Your view: And why are you sadden by how SDP is run?
I’m not. Chiam was.
Your view: Do you expect SDP to flourish under Draconian rules in Singapore?
They did until 1993. Once Chee took over, the rest is history.
Your view: Maybe like a WP? So inept and useless? WP is more of a clone of PAP and even been praised by MM. Imagined it?
Well, I’ll leave the impression of WP to the voters.
Your view: Have you read both side of the story? Why not pay a visit to SDP website to read more…there are copies of declassified information from London regarding our dear MM. Why not read more first to comment? I hope you are not the brainwash readers from Shit Times.
I’ve read more than you think. I’ve even read enough to notice how Chee conveniently forgets to mention the 1994 defamation suit by Chiam. Also how Chee pathetically tries to maintain how he tried to persuade Chiam to stay (whilst conveniently forgetting to mention how Chiam under oath disputed that recollection.)
Your view: If hunger strikes and peaceful protests are foolish, then perhaps there isn’t a INDEPENDENT & DEMOCRATIC INDIA to be found on the MAP as GHANDI must be the biggest fool on earth. Does jailing a politcal activists prevent people to join a party? Quoting Chiam is the foolish thing to do. Maybe CHIAM can propose better ways to get messages across to the gahmen and people? He can come out and show all Singaporeans how it can be done.
I have the utmost respect for Gandhi. Whilst Gandhi eschewed power. I do note how Chee managed to usurp Chiam for the SDP sec gen post. Chee is no gandhi.
Your view: I see CHEE as having lost the battle but he might actally win the WAR in the long term! The support he gets from WP and SDA are NIL. So much so for OPPOSITION unity. Ain’t the questions asked by SDP the same questions posed by WP and Mr Chiam? Now people can see what kind of OPPOSITION we have. Let the people with eyes and ears decide what kind of Singapore they want?
lol. Trying to make the opposition leader lose his MP seat in 1994 is certainly a case for opposition unity. Actions not words count. It is interesting how successful opposition parties must follow chee’s methods in order to be united rather than Chee following their methods.
Your view: I was also hoping someone from WP can oust the inept LTK out of the party. Too bad. There ain’t a second DR Chee.
Thank goodness for Singapore.
One word to describe LKY and Clown Prince.
Stupidity.
If they are not willing to speak sensibly and responsively, by all means don’t act as hero and behave like a coward letting their own lawyer speak on their behalf because the whole republic has a high expectation of them thinking they could fend for themselve to prove their real leadership and talent. They should have know the type of questions that Dr Chee will rise, why not be prepared to answer them rather than keep silence to let their own kangaroo judge and court do the talking. This create a mockery out of the jurdication. They forgot too that many educated people attend and listen to the court case and see for themselves the foolishness of Lee’s not Dr Chee, and that only to ridicule the MSM even more of a partisan stand.
Look like they are really living a world of their own make-believe world thinking that the citizen are just as stupid as decades ago. They forget people now are far more educated and wide-read, and not just reading newspaper alone. The educated now seek the internet for more information and evidence.
If they doesn’t want people to expose their cowardice and incompetence, by all means just keep silent and pretend nothing happen as in Selamat’s case.
So what’s the final driving nail to end the hope of nation under Lee ?
It is summarized by Lucky Tan well…
Quote by LKY
“The final test is what Singapore was when I became prime minister in 1959 and what Singapore is now. We had less than $100 million in the kitty. Today, global financial services assess Singapore to have sovereign wealth funds of over $300 billion.”
So the final test of success for Singapore is simply to have $300 billion to SWF ?
So who is lunatic ? Dr Chee or LKY ? The whole of nation’s fate is judged by its reserved ? Not only this is short-sighted and narrow-minded, it is pathetic. No wonder LKY is nonchalant to suffering of people and consider everyone a digit towards contributing the billions dollar. For heaven’s sake, nation is made up of human being, and not something you can sacrifice them by your need for large reserve for SWF. It remind me when the Clown PM used the number of A’s to determine the next minister. Just as short-sighted and narrow-mind as his father. Like father like son.
Can Singapore really has hope under this despondent ruling family ?
I find it amusing that Singaporeans are ‘finding’ for the perfect opposition. Truth is: there isn’t one. Surely not in Chee, not in LTK, not in Chiam.
But you have got to give it to Chee. Lee had JBJ, LHL has Chee. What more can you ask? I have this funny feeling that Singaporeans want a morally upright man, but not one who is a politician of the heart - being sensitive to public needs.
Perhaps this was ingrained in our upbringing to have a father figure who is strict, stern, no-nonsense but can bring money home. Don’t matter if he is too strict and close to abusive, doesn’t matter if he treats you like dirt, and believe in ‘children should be seen not heard’.
So there you have PAP who fits the bill.
Yet we all inwardly agree with the non-transparency of the PAP policies and SWF and high salaries of the ministers raised by Chee. And we have no guts (including myself) to challenge it.
What I’m trying to say is there is no perfect opposition leader. But we still need strong viable opposition who will QUESTION the policies of the government.
My hope is still to see PAP in power for many years but they do NOT have the majority of the seats. Thus I can be sure policies implemented will be more public friendly, sensitive and focused, instead of being all centered around the party objectives.
Kaffein
LKY made a good move in confronting Chee head on. Many Singaporeans are sick and tired of both men, but I think the fatigue is more palpable towards the latter. As a comparison, both seem to be larger than life. However, Chee seems to think he is above the law. This is something not even LKYwould dare to claim, but it seems Chee thinks he is above bankruptcy law, laws on contempt of court, laws on defamation, and all natural laws of decency and right thinking behaviour.
Why turn a courtroom into his playground? 15 counts of contempt is no laughing issue.
This man is really a borderline psychopath.
When LKY dies, he will have a strong country to show for all his bullshit antics. When Chee leaves, what will his legacy be?
Certainly not the democratic legacy: as LKY pointed out, a serious opposition is one that respects the rule of law. Even JBJ tried to clear his bankruptcy, is Chee making ANY effort?
And still he lives like a king, getting invitations to go around the world and foreign funding to carry on his public annoyances. What has he done to make ANYBODY’S life better? Who is he to speak for us with such impunity, breaking all the laws our country is held together by? He claims the PAP has no democratic mandate, but where is HIS, to piss on the laws of our country so boldly?
At least a half-arsed PAP mandate protected by GRCs is better than Chee’s foreign money mandate!
Who exactly is this guy representing?
You can argue laws on assembly are unfair, but he doesn’t care for ANY LAWS, be they contempt of court, bankruptcy, and simple respect for a court of law. IT IS DISGUSTING.
If GE held tomorrow, SDP will lose their deposit.
Sad, because I supported the SDP until 2000, before Chee got sued. When he got sued, I even cried. I thought they were demonizing him. I shouted for him at his Gombak rallies in Hong Kah and Jurong, and waved his SDP flag.
Today, the only demonization of Chee is inflicted by himself. This man makes me sick. A psycopath indeed.
To me, I don’t see either side gaining anything from this.
The Lees have not convinced me that their reputations were affected by the article in the SDP’s newspaper. Neither have they proved that their reputations were damaged because of it.
For the Chees, I do not find their defence convincing either.
What they did leave me with is this: Lots of bravado and mutual name-calling, which I find totally juvenile and infantile - from both sides - playing to the gallery and public opinion.
At the end of the day, the PAP remains a petty and vindictive party.
The SDP remains on the verge of obscurity.
Who wins?
Disillusion, I agree with you.
MMLee has created his legacy (at least he had contributed to the early days of Spore, whether or not we want admit it)..but Chee? He is wasting his own time.
I too, was a SDP supportor. But now..I can’t say for sure I am. Chee is behaving purely irrational and I am no longer sorry for him..
Disillusioned,
You mean that you think Dr Chee is psychopath? Whose doctors certified him, MM’s?
If he is psychopath, why did MM and PM still sue him. Just classify him as a nut case and send him to Mental Hospital why do through court. The main reason is that what he sprouts are what is actually happening in Singapore right now.
Unless you are FINE with this FINE city and everything from rising inflation, foreign talents, SWF poor investment, accountability, transport woes, housing, rising costs of health care and education and many more. I don classify DR Chee who has voiced out all that as a psychopath. Unless i am a pyschopath myself for thinking and asking such views. Do you?
This man is now bankrupt and he is awakening to a new level in politics which is more threatening to the incumbent than people like us. His actions are more likely to move the public to change their mindsets. Here you are lambasting him for what he brought out topics you and i and very much for. Is there still a glimmer of hope for change?
FG
Daniel,
“So the final test of success for Singapore is simply to have $300 billion to SWF ?
So who is lunatic ? Dr Chee or LKY ? The whole of nation’s fate is judged by its reserved ? Not only this is short-sighted and narrow-minded, it is pathetic. No wonder LKY is nonchalant to suffering of people and consider everyone a digit towards contributing the billions dollar. For heaven’s sake, nation is made up of human being, and not something you can sacrifice them by your need for large reserve for SWF. It remind me when the Clown PM used the number of A’s to determine the next minister. Just as short-sighted and narrow-mind as his father. Like father like son.”
What you mentioned is very correct and is mentioned by Dr Chee! To think we are just digits are itself a lunatic behaviour.
lim,
“As spoken, most people have forgetten that it took Chiam 13 years to establish a party that garnered the most number of opposition MPs in Singapore’s history. I believe getting people elected as MPs is a role of an opposition leader so I don’t view him as a failure. If Chee had usurped his role as sec gen of the SDP, it is anyone’s guess how the face of opposition politics might have looked.”
Frankly speaking i am not a supporter of SDP or in the SDP executive committee to know what transpire in Chiam getting boot. He has 13 years to setup the party for what purpose to recruit talents and strengthen opposition so he recruited DR Chee. By the look of Chiam now, he is so cautious as
a opposition politican reverse back to when he holds power to SDP what did he do most? Nothing. Holding and warming seats are not politician they are town council managers only. Speak out is what politician do. The people voted him and SDP because they think a change is coming. They are left very disappointed. What has he done? Everyone can blame DR Chee but we never know what happened right? Btw i am not a PAP supporter.
“I have respect for JBJ as not only an MP but the first opposition MP since Singapore’s independence. Nevertheless, I quote Chiam as a 6 term MP, an MP that was once acknowledge as the official opposition leader and who was once sadly, the mentor of the person that we refer to.”
I am glad you think highly of JBJ. Yes he is the best. What is so different of him to CHIAM? He dares to speak out…he is not a town council manager..is he? Why did JBJ bother to fight the court case for CHEE and sister? If Dr Chee is so downright scum as some says will he willing to fight for him? Is a hard sacrifice you know if that someone is not worth your effort to defend?
“I’ve read more than you think. I’ve even read enough to notice how Chee conveniently forgets to mention the 1994 defamation suit by Chiam. Also how Chee pathetically tries to maintain how he tried to persuade Chiam to stay (whilst conveniently forgetting to mention how Chiam under oath disputed that recollection.)”
Is either you believe DR Chee ’s words or Mr Chiam ’s version. Why did Chee tries to kick Chiam out any background on it? What he protested when he got sacked from NUS and his actions afterward did Chiam supported him?
“I have the utmost respect for Gandhi. Whilst Gandhi eschewed power. I do note how Chee managed to usurp Chiam for the SDP sec gen post. Chee is no gandhi.”
I am not saying chee is gandhi. I am just curious about the statement you brought out of Chiam about foolish acts in hunger strikes and peaceful protests. When there is no alternative to voice out and not even speaker corner at that time, tell me what are ways opposition can do? Keeping mum like a mummy.
“lol. Trying to make the opposition leader lose his MP seat in 1994 is certainly a case for opposition unity. Actions not words count. It is interesting how successful opposition parties must follow chee’s methods in order to be united rather than Chee following their methods.”
Which methods have proven successful in Singapore? Did we have a PKR like in malaysia? Chee won SDP control, but did he get potong pasir? No. Mr Chiam has 3 elections to expand his new party and get more talents. What happened now? Nothing, no improvements. He has seen his support of Potong Pasir falls from a high to all time low. Why? Did he do poorly as a town council manager? Did he speak out more on hard questions? He will lose Potong Pasir in the next election…reason…he has lost the will of an opposition. Of course, we all can blam e Chee for this. Do you blame people who sacked you from your job because they disagreed with you? Or do you get up and fight like a fighter?Its plain for all to see.
Thank Goodness there is JBJ coming back. I had enough of LTK and CHIAM and for some Dr CHEE.
Dear Guys,
I was away for quite a while; reading the papers I am following the Chees in court and also read the final verdict on the appeal of the ex-CEO of NKF.
Can someone give me some help as to append a chronological tale of the events of the NKF scandal from beginning to end from the netizens’ perspective. I am researching a topic on ” Justice in charity related cases as meted out in Singapore Courts” - a Netizens’ perspective. Thanking you all in advance.
The issue here is more than the bad bloods amongst the drama kings (the Lees and the Chees) and queen(Ms Chee).
The legal issue is one of damage. There is no doubt that the Chees have defamed the Lees. The question is by how much. According to the Lees’ lawyers, a lot. According to Mr Senile, his reputation has gone down from 100% to 80%. But if the Chees are just a trivial bunch of political juveniles, why do two respectable political figures have to use the forces of the laws and exact their pounds of flesh? Is that making a mountain out of a molehill? The Lees will dispute this as they will claim that not only their integrity but that of the government is at stake here. Did they just contradict themselves? Did Mr Senile say that the world think highly of Singapore and the government? By that, do they eman that Singapore garner less awards than before the defamation?
In fact, with their actions, the Lees are actually damaging their own reputations as well as that of the government and the court? Going by their own logic, shouldn’t the Singapore government sue the Lees for defamation?
The outcome of the court is clear as daylight. The Chees will have to pay hue damages, the Lees will be happy with their victory in court. But the laws cannot protect your integrity and reputation. You, as a human being, can only do so through your actions which will be judged by posterity. (Naturally, Mr Senile will say, “I have fixed that. I have written the official history that will be the benchmark against all histories will be judged. It is called THE Singapore Story.”).
Worse still, Dr Chee now wants to drag JBJ into the mess.
Enough of all these stupid drama, you Lees and Chees.
that the only personality supporting chee soon juan on this thread bears a striking resemblance to him in vehemence simply reinforces the impression (limited, i concede) i have of him and his party as lunatics.
i’m seventeen and grew up with vague impressions of a man who at some point in time went on a hunger strike, made vehement heartland demonstrations and was arrested by london authorities (pardon me if i get my facts wrong). yet he’s somehow managed to elbow his way into the courts and continue to fight his battle in a manner that, to any observer, seems ridiculously pointless.
these assorted parties are the ones i understand i’ll be voting for in about four years. what matters to me is not how much a delusional, self-styled revolutionary ‘defames’ the PAP - social studies and national education have taken care of any impressions i may get of singapore as anything but a spirited, innovative scion of independence with the PAP at the forefront of its effective, good good governance. what matters to me is where we go from here - outward, in diplomatic relations, economic growth and cultural development, and inward, in people’s economic and social welfare, security and education.
i agree with legaleager - let’s get on and over with the drama and down to what that a government is elected/appointed for - working for the country and the people.
I have no respect for the old man anymore.
Especially after realising the truth that he has in fact brought a lot of suffering to the families of those that he has victimised because of his own political ambition.
So Old Man, please stop bragging about what you have done for Singapore. Not forgetting that you and your relatives has greatly benefitted from Singapore’s properity.
“I could also add that I’ve had several of my own doctors who are familiar with such conduct,” he continued, “tell me that he is near-psychopath.”
Seriously, I think if any doctor who offered to make such a comment, he must be either a running dog or equally out-of-his mind.
Must be a PR move on Dr Chee’s part. I think its reached a stage where being sued by MM is a mark of respectability. It is demonstration that you have become someone important enough for him to consider a threat and if you are in the business of publications, its probably a sign that you have hit of a raw nerve.
What is the ideal outcome? Demolishing Lee’s party? Cutting his administration’s pay? Increasing opposition politicians?
Despite its deficiencies, the political system is not rotten to be point to call for a revolution. Bringing down the system is not the best way to fix it. Colliding head-on with Lee’s party will not make any progress either. So does asking for a listening ear.
What is more effective is to let the ends shape the means. If both the Party and the people are most concerned with continued economic progress, then let this shape the political landscape. As the economic border opens up, the World is exerting increasing pressure to liberate the political system. At the same time, to upkeep the workforce necessary for the new economy, more international professionals have to be inducted into the work force, and they exert some influence indirectly. External forces may be more effective than brute internal forces.
So, work hard, open up to new people and ideas, and embrace the new economy. Shape a win-win situation.
In the meanwhile, make specific suggestions to improve the quality of life without threatening the Party. If you are inspired to change the system without joining the system, be brave and effective, not a threat who proves a point without making real progress.
Dillusion,
I refer to your quote:
“LKY made a good move in confronting Chee head on. Many Singaporeans are sick and tired of both men, but I think the fatigue is more palpable towards the latter. As a comparison, both seem to be larger than life. However, Chee seems to think he is above the law. This is something not even LKY would dare to claim, but it seems Chee thinks he is above bankruptcy law, laws on contempt of court, laws on defamation, and all natural laws of decency and right thinking behaviour.
Why turn a courtroom into his playground? 15 counts of contempt is no laughing issue. ”
I beg to take a different stand from you. Let me quote Dr. Martin Luther King’s letter from his jailcell in Birmingham
“One may well ask: “How can you advocate breaking some laws and obeying others?” The answer lies in the fact that there are two types of laws: just and unjust. I would be the first to advocate obeying just laws. One has not only a legal but a moral responsibility to obey just laws. Conversely, one has a moral responsibility to disobey unjust laws. I would agree with St. Augustine that “an unjust law is no law at all.”"
Is suing someone for defamation and then not allowing the defendant defend himself, a morally uncorrupted law?
Is shutting people up by means of banning outdoor assembly and protest a morally human and uncorrupted law?
Is being able to change the constitution with impunity having a 90+% grip-hold of power in parliament something to rejoice about?
Government officers are PUBLIC SERVANTS. Our ministers, prime minister and president are all elected into office to serve the people. To represent us in the international arena. To take care of our safety and sovereignty. Don’t we as citizens of this country deserve to get our voices heard?
The incumbent have obviously tried to stifle opposition politics. They don’t want to hear what we have to say, and they made laws to do just that.
Are we to sit by as we watch our basic rights of freedom of speech to be curtailed because of politics?
Imagine if Rosa Park, Dr Martin Luther King, Gandhi followed the law that their government had in place. Imagine the world today.
You may want the government to control your life, to feed you, to give you wealth, as though she is your nanny, but there are other people in Singapore who just wants to grow up without Nanny Intervention.
Would you enjoy having to be at the beck at call of your parents at the age of 50? I’m not saying that we shouldn’t be fillal. I’m talking constant nagging, no freedom, “Go to bed by 9pm”, getting your hands canned. At 50?
No right?
Tang Li,
Good observation. If you are taken heed of in the static, you/your message have stood out relative to the rest of the information flow.
Strange. I tot not getting sued, despite being in the line of fire, was a mark of respectability (and intelligence).
He may make millions but have no soul, he may seek vengence but ultimately he has to meet his maker for judgement day.
Macbeth: Fair is foul and foul is fair.
But ultimately the king shall meet his death.
I believe in one statement, “Just as it is the duty of all citizens to obey just laws, it’s also the duty of all citizens to disobey unjust laws”. Many incidents, including the Mas Selamat escape, tarnishes the government’s image as first class.
Hi I said this on SDP’s website and I’ll say it here.
How many of those here commenting actually went down to the courtroom to witness the farce of it all?
I was there, I witnessed the whole thing. Is it right for a politician to use the courts to grill another politician with words verging on insult?
I dislike the Lees for their arrogance. But if I were on that stand being grilled by this raving lunatic, I would not take it lightly. No one deserves to be grilled in such fashion and in such an offhanded manner. Not in a court of law.
I’ve met Chee. He is a nice guy to speak to. But he is also intensely self-righteous. fueled no doubt by his Christianity, which he has proclaimed to be the guiding light of his actions.
But while passionate, he is also a rash, brash and unthinking man. He is undoubtedly intelligent and well-read but he doesn’t think through his words and actions. To say in a court of law, where one of the top litigators in Singapore present, that a friend told me he didn’t sanction an award for Lee is suicidal. What evidence did he have? What proof?
Without such proof, he is only tearing his own shirt apart and asking to be whipped.
The whole event was a circus and a farce. Lees have done no better than Chees by driving him into a corner. Chees have do no good to themselves by making themselves look foolish and making a mockery of the courts.
Good bye Chee, and thanks for all the fish
While I do not support ot agree with SDP or Chee, I have to agree that I identify the greater good he is fighting for and it’s sad that many here do not realise this. It’s not about whether SDP,or WP is a better or if Chee can win the next election, that will be decided at the next election. Its about civil liberties and the freedom of speech and expression. The people are the voice and the police to make sure politicians are answerable. We must have the right to question a and demand answers.
[...] Dissident: Lee Kuan Yew: If bloggers who defame me identify themselves, I will sue them! - TOC: The courtroom as theatre - A Xeno Boy in Sg: Will You Be Back Tomorrow? - Diary of A Singaporean Mind: Man arrested for [...]
Hi Michael,
I understand your view. The sad thing in Singapore politics is the lack of progress in developing a more open and democratic environment after all these years. It is reaching a point where some people think fighting fire with fire and devil with devil is acceptable and is he only way to bring democracy to Singapore. But these people do not understand that in doing so, they will destroy the objective, a democratic society, in the process.
“An eye for an eye leaves everybody blind.”, Mahatma Ghandi
aptly describe the situation we are facing.
Regards.
History is replete with great men like Chee with behaviours which may be termed as inappropriate / or even erratic at a specific point of time.
Only time (and Chee being young in political terms has plenty of time on his side) will tell whether he will stand or fall finally - it is still early to count him out. Reality may not work in accordance to men’s liking and it can always throw out new surprises.
Very much as the MSM would like to paint him as a undesirable character. Impression has been given that he is slowly moulding the whole atmosphere to his very advantage.
“But while passionate, he is also a rash, brash and unthinking man. He is undoubtedly intelligent and well-read but he doesn’t think through his words and actions. ”
Unfortunately most of us educated one think through our words, actions and consequences end up doing nothing but waiting for the finest hours to come. Wait and wait, year after year, we be still in Online Citizen complaining about how undemocratic Singapore has been and how the government will suppress the voice. Yes, wait and wait for the old man to meet his maker. We, the critics, are just bystander, sitting on the bench waiting for the right moment and right time hoping for the best with our inaction. Yes, piting on the hope on election where time after time, we taste bitter medicine when the coffers resort to unethnical means to secure their wins. And the whole DejuRu will repeat again and again. And yet we are waiting for the old one to perish but the will of the oldman to survive himself and his legacy is far greater than our own will to reform the system. So who will have the last laugh ?
Now Dr Chee take the initiative steps to do it, just let him be. Don’t belittle his effort. We may disagree his action but I no doubt he doing the right thing versus doing thing right.
“An eye for an eye leaves everybody blind.”, Mahatma Ghandi.
If it strike the balance between government power and citizen’s right, does that really matter ?
To Fever Guy, May 30th, 8.39pm,
I do read articles about Chee in ST, and i’ve also watched his clips on youtube, and on blogs, and read his book. my opinion on Chee is not formed on ST alone. I have seen him in action ever since he was removed fr NUS for activities with the opposition.
Michael’s comment (June 2nd, 9.42am), captured what i was saying - the lack of finesse. Doesnt think through his words and actions. I think he wants to be a martyr, but whether thats the right move for today’s political scene is a big question.
but even being a martyr requires finesse - you bring up issues, not theatrics. i find Chee looks for cheap theatrics that gets him into trouble, rather than discussing issues (which he does have good ideas). I’m not surprised that the media picks up on the cheap dramatics, rather than on the messages he wants to deliver - and i dont blame the media for it.
His opening statement of “We finally meet” already sets the tone of the debate - he’s using the court to try and expose LKY. LKY is a hardened politician from our turbulent days - has dealt with the toughest people in the world - then and now. on his side is Davinder Singh, the #1 litigator in Singapore, and some say in JB and Batam.
You see my point about picking the right battles? indeed, he’ll be at the losing end on this one for sure.
In the recent election, when they were campaigning in East Coast, and they bumped into GCT doing his rounds. What do you think is the best way to handle the situation?
1. do you scream at GCT, telling him about billions of our dollars spent in Suzhou, and our relationship with Myanmar junta? i.e. cheap theatrics…OR
2. You go over, shake GCT’s hand, wish him all the best and a good fight for the ward, invite him to your rally and offer a debate on issues? a civic and diplomatic way to engage your opponent?
Does he has an axe to grind with certain members of PAP or is he REALLY thinking about offering Singaporeans a good alternative government?
Would i trust you, Dr Chee, to be able to handle sensitive diplomatic conversations with countries in the region and globally, when you cant even have a decent conversation with the government, when the opportunity arose?
its a different ballgame - a politician and an idealist.
in my mind, Chee is an idealist who wants to be remembered as a martyr - NOT wanting to do something good for singapore.
I think most Singaporeans can tell when a person is really standing up for Singapore.
“An eye for an eye leaves everybody blind.”, Mahatma Ghandi.
If it strike the balance between government power and citizen’s right, does that really matter ?
I guess it really does not matter any more when everyone is “blinded” in the process. That “balanced” “blind” powers against each other will just be what we need to tear the society apart.
IMHO, Dr Chee is one of the only few standing up for Singapore. The rest are busy making money.
Michael,
I’ve met Chee. He is a nice guy to speak to. But he is also intensely self-righteous. fueled no doubt by his Christianity, which he has proclaimed to be the guiding light of his actions.
What do you mean by self-righteous?
If someone believe in his cause and willing to pay the price of his own believe is that being self-righteous?
Is being self-righteous a wrong thing?
Do you prefer someone who is clueless about what he/she believe in and requires others to validate his/her actions? Like the WP types — i.e. don’t even know whether to vote for his party member or not?
Frankly, I rather go for a self righteous person at least I know who I am dealing with. I won’t trust the WP types who are more devious.
Chee is a Christian so what is wrong for him to be guided by that?
He has not forced you to accept his way to doing thing, like the Lees, who through the power of his government have passed laws to suppress people. All he did was to present his side of the view. All you need to do is to believe or not believe him.
I dislike the Lees for their arrogance. But if I were on that stand being grilled by this raving lunatic, I would not take it lightly. No one deserves to be grilled in such fashion and in such an offhanded manner. Not in a court of law.
Like Chee, I don’t hate the Lees. And neither do I dislike their arrogance despite being sympathetic to Chee’s cause. I think arrogance can be a good thing because it breeds confidence, and you get less wishy washy people and easier to deal with.
What I disagree is the Lees using imposing his arrogant attitude one the people and expect the people to suffer just to satisfy his arrogance. For example, using abusing court proceedings to his own advantages and then using it to paint Chee as the “guilty one”. Or using the power of state institution to then conflate his own arrogant attitude to be a embodiment of the country. And making it a crime to question his method because he is not just Lee Kuan Yew but Mr Singapore! Or make Singaporean suffer because his arrogant attitude is now seen as “good” policy.
At least Chee don’t have such pretension.
But while passionate, he is also a rash, brash and unthinking man. He is undoubtedly intelligent and well-read but he doesn’t think through his words and actions. To say in a court of law, where one of the top litigators in Singapore present, that a friend told me he didn’t sanction an award for Lee is suicidal. What evidence did he have? What proof?
What do you mean he his rash and brash?
What top litigator? The only reason the litigator is top is because he has the backing of big money and the backing of the Lees.
I have seen Singh in actions in other cases, and frankly his is just so-so. The only thing is that he knows how to manipulate the legal proceedings in Singapore to his client advantages. For example, getting the court to dismiss evidence as irrelevant before it comes to the open. Unable to present evidence, you how can you proof.
He was credited with exposing the NKF fraught but who was his pay master? Effectively, the Strait Times! An organisation with big money and resources to investigate fully. If he was representing a client with small amount of money he is no where! Hey with that kind of resources, even I with only limited legal training can also win the case.
Hey when JBJ had a QC to represent, why was he not used as defence lawyer for GCT? Why GCT had no faith Singh can challenge a QC?
As for the court, well if you follow the proceedings and even with little appreciation of jurisprudence, it is hard to come to any other conclusion than it is hardly (to put it mildly) independent.
But of course, people who are conned into believing the Singaporean courts as some instrument of objectivity and neutrality will buy that crap.
His opening statement of “We finally meet” already sets the tone of the debate - he’s using the court to try and expose LKY. LKY is a hardened politician from our turbulent days - has dealt with the toughest people in the world - then and now. on his side is Davinder Singh, the #1 litigator in Singapore, and some say in JB and Batam.
You see my point about picking the right battles? indeed, he’ll be at the losing end on this one for sure.
Er who is trying to use the court here. May I remind you it was LKY who brought the court action not Chee. It was LKY who bravely say that he would take the stand and answer all question. It was not Chee’s choice of battle ground.
Now if an opportunity comes for you to show how LKY is nothing more than a flawed character and the deficiencies of the court, would you not use it?
By your argument it seemed that you are blaming the victim rather than the real criminal.
For those who feel that Chee had fought the wrong battle.
My feeling is that what Chee has done is quite brilliant actually. Putting aside Chee’s personality, what he has done is to use the arrogance of the Lees and Singh as their weakness and attack it. Just like the art of Judo. When your opponent is heavier than you, you use his weight floor him!
The Lees when deciding to fight their cause in court probably thought they had the advantage. But what they didn’t count on was the weight of their arrogance and, let’s just say, the weight of the courts dubious practices to becoming a liability!
A jolly good show Dr Chee!
It is really a National Shame that leaders have been constantly squabbling with their citizens all these years.
patriot.
“Disllusioned: If GE held tomorrow, SDP will lose their deposit.”
Heh heh, I wont bet on it. They didn’t lose theirs in 2006.
“lim on June 2nd, 2008 3.24 pm
I think most Singaporeans can tell when a person is really standing up for Singapore.”
I think most Singaporeans can’t spot the person (or gang) who is pretending to stand up for Singapore.
If you can cheat on taxi fares… you can cheat on anything
“I think most Singaporeans can’t spot the person (or gang) who is pretending to stand up for Singapore.”
Really ? So why not try pretending to stand up for singapore by going jail in and out eating free curry rice ?
“If you can cheat on taxi fares…”
So what is this comparing to the exorbitant reserves that no one knows except the coffers ?
Tan Ah Kow,
I read your reply to Michael….very good! You hit the jackpot!
Agyee,
Nothing wrong with dissident shouting at GCT, they are opposition. Do you think Dr Chee invite GCT for tea session possible? Nice way of talking is for “nice people” only and those with laws on their side ain’t angels in the first place.
I was there the day he shouted in a market to all around there with a loud haler and mind you he did not scream like a girl. He said it well and clear. I say BRAVO! He really got guts and is not a pretender like those WP who voted for PAP. I was stunned but held deep admiration for a man who dont minced his words. He said it loud and clear without the press censoring it like the one who said “fixed them” and “buy my voters”.
Daniel,
I waiting and praying for the old fart to go to “Heaven”.
FG
Indeed, a cogent analysis by Farquhar. The Lee tag team may have won the legal battle in court with the Chee siblings, but it was a hollow victory considering the fact that CSJ [ not a qualified lawyer ] had to conduct his own defence. Where is the sense of fair play if you consider the Chee siblings as citizens and not enemies of the state. The whole process has affected the image of the judiciary. It is obvious with all the publicity, the defendants have won over the international community that promotes democracy. Whilst here in sheep city, the Chee siblings’ indomitable spirit will give encouragement to the ordinary people.The year 2011 will perhaps be the defining moment for Singapore.
I believe majority of Singaporeans are looking for change. Change that has substance and for the better. Opposition and the like parties will need to come up with something that most commoners can identify to, that is of any substance as their building foundation. Plausible constructive actions and non-confrontational exchanges fair better then brawl action which are otherwise demeaning to the commoners eye. Example like one of some overseas ads that I had saw, it epitomize the essence of healthy harmonious living. There is one eye catching phrase depicting a brawl in a family between the two parents with that poor little kids sandwich in the middle. The ads ended by saying : “So you win the fight but you lost the family, is it worth it?”
Contesting oppositions parties need to really find out what concerns most to the common Singaporean like me. If they really think hard, yes, we know it is hard to get privilege information disclosure on a certain subject matter, are there no other avenues? I believe a strong will, upright, unselfish and public minded person who has every intention to serve its people will see to that. Obviously, I am no politician, but if I view the majority of Singaporeans needs as my prospective customers that I would like to have, then, I will find all plausible ways to fulfill that fundamental need to secure a place for me to foster continual relationship with them before I could introduce any drastic changes that may otherwise proved un-deployable at that period of time.
Sometime, information you need can be acquired from other sources that has relation to its original holder. The question here is, even if you can get it, are these information obtained factual and credible? and how you make use of these information in a manner that is constructively presented and not confrontational to help the public vote in your favor that ultimately usher you an entry ticket to fulfill that illusive goal. However, the process through this road is indeed very demanding.
A simple analogy can be made to attest why the PAP still commands that majority votes in most of the elections (please, for those diehards who like to stereo-type, every individuals are entitled to a POV that may differ from your believe. It aint going to help by name calling. Stigmatism only fuel more resentment and viewed as immature act).
The fundamental needs of the majority are catered for and whether you like it or not, comparing to neighbouring countries (it does not make sense to compare size and population), ultimately, even if it is a small population, the reality is they did what the majority wants. The rest of them are cosmetic (if I may). Will Singapore diminish if do not change the rules on “Freedom of Speech” now?, will Singapore vanish if we do not change the rules on “Freedom of Choice”? and so on… Do we have to change right away? Things do not change over night. For the older generation of Singaporeans like me (I am past 50 now as a matter of fact), indeed there are resounding changes for the better compared to 20-30 years ago. Do I agree in full what the current governing parties policies deployed? No, but I give credit to this party for all the hard work that it has done to make Singapore as is today. Its progressive. Yes, more change are needed, but it takes time. Don’t we human take time to grow and learn?
Oh just for the record for those young, don’t assume older generations are brain washed or converted or too “senile” to want change.
If we seriously look forward to changes for the better in the way that S’pore is governed, then Dr Chee and his SDP members are doing the hard and selfless work for us.
Forget about so-called public feedback as far as governance is concerned. If PAP really bothers about your feedback on their policies, many of them would not have been imposed.
Accountability, credibility and integrity of PAP is a big question mark. This was created by the ministers and MPs themselves. If one have not done anything questionable, there would not be questions nor suspicion or controversy raised.
If one cannot stand up to scrutiny, then one must be challenged further. The NKF issue is the best example and reminder for Singaporeans. On the surface, it looked pretty good until the disgusting truth was exposed in court.
Can we simply assume this will not happen again or happen in other organisations? Trust can only be accorded when accountability and transparency are really practised.
It is foolish for anybody to expect to be trusted based on status itself. The higher echelon of office must be scrutinised because that’s where the most damage or abuse can be done.
Harrison,
This Blog site and others epitomize the effects on ordinary citizen’s concerned. If feedback are constructive and make sense, it will be noted. Given time, constructive and useful feedback will be adopted. I will be worried if feedbacks are taken in immediately without further analysis on its impact in a broader spectrum that you, I and other netizens lack that crucial sensitive information to base the outcome with.
Be positive and persistent. Exercise a little more patience and continue the constructive criticism and offer alternative views. If we want to take issue on a matter and criticize, the least thing we can do is to offer an alternative proposition. However, I personally do not agree bulldozing tactics that are based on speculations.
Good policies are meant to last and takes enormous effort and foresight to develope. So, if it did not happen immediately, it doesn’t mean it is not going to open. The opposite is true. Having said, no single policy in any country of the world satisfy 100% of its citizen. What is important is our continual constructive feedback in hope that it is heard and you will know it when it is adopted. Let’s not loose faith regardless which party you favor. In the corporate world, no organization can survive without the support of its managers and subordinates regardless of how big they are. Likewise, no country can survive without the support of its citizen and no political party can survive without the support of its constituencies.