Following his charges in court for a number of offences that include corruption and obstruction of Justice, former Minister of Transport S. Iswaran resigned from the Cabinet.
Acting Transport Minister Chee Hong Tat is set to take over as the new Transport Minister while retaining his position as the Second Minister for Finance.
As part of the reshuffle, Ms. Grace Fu, currently heading the Ministry for Sustainability and the Environment (MSE), will assume the role of Minister-in-charge of Trade Relations. These changes are effective immediately, according to a statement released by the Prime Minister’s Office.
Resignation from roles
The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) confirmed Mr. Iswaran’s resignation, highlighting the developments that led to this decision. The 61-year-old minister faced charges following investigations by the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau (CPIB).
Mr. Iswaran formally tendered his resignation letter to Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong on January 16, a day after receiving charges. In this letter, he stepped down from his roles as Transport Minister, PAP (People’s Action Party) member, and West Coast GRC (Group Representation Constituency) MP.
The former minister also expressed his intention to return his reduced ministerial salary and MP allowances received since the start of the CPIB probe, which commenced in July of the previous year. Despite maintaining his innocence, Mr. Iswaran cited his inability to discharge his duties as a Minister and MP as the reason for returning the monies, acting out of good conscience.
Prime Minister Lee responded to Mr. Iswaran’s resignation and offer to return the funds in a letter on January 17, accepting both.
Chee Hong Tat and Grace Fu
In light of these developments, Acting Minister for Transport Chee Hong Tat is promoted to a full Minister and will undertake the responsibilities of the Transport Ministry. Minister Grace Fu takes over the additional role of Minister-in-charge of Trade Relations, a position held by Mr. Iswaran since 2011.
This Cabinet reshuffle reflects Singapore’s commitment to maintaining effective governance amid challenges, ensuring continuity and stability in key ministerial portfolios.
Prime Minister’s Office Statement
The Prime Minister announced his new Cabinet line-up and other political appointments on 18 January 2024.
Mr Chee Hong Tat will be promoted to full Minister and be appointed as Minister for Transport. He will also be appointed Second Minister for Finance.
Ms Grace Fu, Minister for Sustainability and the Environment, will concurrently assume responsibility as Minister-in-charge of Trade Relations.
The changes will take effect from 18 January 2024.
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PRIME MINISTER’S OFFICE
18 JANUARY 2024