Ex-Singapore minister Iswaran starts jail term for accepting gifts
Iswaran starts sentence with strict conditions at Changi Prison
S. Iswaran, a former transport minister of Indian origin in Singapore, has begun his one-year jail sentence at Changi Prison. The 62-year-old, who served in politics for thirty years as a member of the ruling People’s Action Party, was allocated a 6.9 sq m single cell due to “higher safety and security risk,” according to the Singapore Prison Service (SPS) on Monday. Iswaran has been provided with a straw mat and two blankets for his time in jail, where he is serving his sentence for accepting gifts during his tenure.
SPS stated that all inmates receive essentials for daily living, including a toothbrush, toothpaste, clothing, slippers, a towel, and a plastic spoon for meals. The service encourages inmates to stay in touch with family and friends through face-to-face visits, tele-visits, or e-letters. Iswaran, like other inmates, is allowed up to two visits per month, one of which can be face-to-face, and can send up to four e-letters monthly.
In a statement on Monday, Iswaran reflected on his career: “Serving my constituents and Singaporeans over the past 3 decades has been the greatest honour of my life. As this chapter of my life comes to a close, my family and I look to the future with gratitude and renewed hope.” He admitted to accepting SGD 403,300 worth of valuables over seven years, including tickets to musicals, Formula 1 events, and football matches, along with alcohol and a Brompton bicycle gifted for his 60th birthday.
A Singapore court has sentenced former minister S Iswaran to 12 months in prison for obstructing justice and receiving more than $300,000 worth of gifts in the nation’s first political corruption trial for nearly half a century. pic.twitter.com/CdhSCIkL9v
— NewsWire 🇱🇰 (@NewsWireLK) October 3, 2024
His extensive career in public service saw him rise through the administrative ranks before entering politics in 1997. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong commented last week on the necessity of acting to ensure the integrity of Singapore’s government and politics, maintaining they remain corruption-free. Following Iswaran’s sentencing to 12 months, Wong stated, “We will do what is right by Singapore and Singaporeans, regardless of the political costs or the personal pain we feel when a colleague and friend has been jailed.” He added that those in public service must uphold the highest standards of integrity, expressing his disappointment and sadness over the end of Iswaran’s political career.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions asked about this news
Why was S. Iswaran given a single cell in Changi Prison?
He was given a single cell due to ‘higher safety and security risk’.
What items are provided to inmates in Changi Prison?
Inmates receive necessities like a toothbrush, toothpaste, clothing, slippers, towel, and plastic spoon.
How can inmates at Changi Prison keep in touch with family?
They can have face-to-face visits, tele-visits, or write e-letters.
What were the charges against S. Iswaran?
He admitted to obtaining SGD 403,300 worth of valuables over seven years.
What did Prime Minister Lawrence Wong say about Iswaran’s case?
He emphasized the need to uphold the highest standards of integrity in public service.
