Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs Zaqy Mohamad has appealed to the public to stop spreading unverified claims after a woman was wrongly identified online in connection with former minister Muhammad Faishal Ibrahim’s resignation.
In a Facebook post published on Jul. 27, Zaqy said the woman had been forced to publicly clarify that she was not involved after her photographs and identity were circulated online, exposing her to false accusations and abusive comments.
He stressed that innocent people should not have to suffer because of speculation circulating on social media.
Woman Falsely Linked To Faishal Case
Zaqy wrote that many people were still trying to come to terms with the recent developments involving Faishal, but said this should not result in innocent individuals being harmed.
He said the woman who had been wrongly identified had to publicly deny the allegations after online users falsely linked her to the case.
“No innocent person, especially a woman, should have to endure such harassment because of unfounded speculation,” he said.
The comments came after fitness instructor Rasidah Caudal publicly rejected rumours identifying her as the woman involved in the circumstances surrounding Faishal’s resignation. She described herself as having been “wrongfully accused” and indicated she intended to pursue legal action over the false allegations.
Calls For Privacy And Compassion
Zaqy also expressed support for Faishal and his family, saying the former minister had served the community with sincerity and dedication over many years.
He urged the public to accord Faishal and his loved ones privacy, compassion and respect as they go through a difficult period.
Referring to the Islamic value of adab, Zaqy reminded the community to be careful with their words and responsible with what they share online.
He encouraged Singaporeans to verify information before forwarding it, warning that “a few clicks online can cause deep hurt to innocent people.”
Background To Faishal’s Resignation
Faishal resigned on Jul. 20 as Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs, Member of Parliament and People’s Action Party member after acknowledging a lapse of judgment in the way he handled online interactions with a female member of the public.
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong said police investigated allegations made by both parties and concluded that no criminal offence had been committed. However, Faishal accepted that his conduct fell short of the standards expected of a political office holder and stepped down from his appointments.
Following the resignation, Zaqy was appointed Acting Minister-in-charge of Muslim Affairs. Since then, authorities and public figures have repeatedly urged members of the public to avoid speculation and refrain from spreading unverified information that could harm innocent individuals.