In a significant development, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has issued a statement regarding the resignation of Mr S Iswaran, a former Cabinet Minister, and member of the People’s Action Party (PAP), on January 18, 2024. The resignation comes in the wake of criminal charges filed against Mr Iswaran by the Public Prosecutor.
The statement reveals that the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau formally notified Mr Iswaran of the charges on January 16, 2024. Following this notice, Mr Iswaran communicated his decision to resign as a Cabinet Minister, PAP member, and Member of Parliament for the West Coast Group Representation Constituency in a letter addressed to Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.
Additionally, on January 17, 2024, Mr Iswaran conveyed his intention to return all monies received as salary for his ministerial role and allowances as an MP from the initiation of the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau’s (CPIB) investigations in July 2023. With his resignation, Mr Iswaran will cease to receive any salary or allowance from the Government.
In response, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, on January 17, acknowledged Mr Iswaran’s decision to resign and return the funds.
PM Lee’s Statement on Iswaran’s Resignation
Statement by Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong on Mr S Iswaran’s resignation on 18 January 2024 and exchange of letters.
The Public Prosecutor has filed criminal charges against Mr Iswaran in Court today.
On 16 January 2024, after the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau had given Mr Iswaran formal notice of the charges, he wrote to me to resign as a Cabinet Minister and as a member of the People’s Action Party (PAP). He also informed me that he was resigning as Member of Parliament for the West Coast Group Representation Constituency.
On 17 January 2024, Mr Iswaran further informed me that he would return all monies received by way of salary as Minister and allowances as MP from the commencement of the CPIB’s investigations in July 2023. Since Mr Iswaran has now resigned, he will henceforth no longer receive any salary or allowance from the Government.
I replied to Mr Iswaran on 17 January 2024 to accept his resignations and acknowledge his decision to return the monies. The exchange of letters is attached.
The Government has dealt with this case rigorously in accordance with the law, and will continue to do so. I am determined to uphold the integrity of the Party and the Government, and our reputation for honesty and incorruptibility. Singaporeans expect no less.
Iswaran’s Resignation Letter to PM Lee
PM Lee’s Respose
