Subramaniam Iswaran took charge of Singapore’s tourism industry during F1 Grand Prix
A Singaporean minister resigned from his government post on Thursday after being accused of corruption. This was an unprecedented situation that shocked a country that prides itself on strict governance. BBC report.
Subramaniam Iswaran, who is known for overseeing Singapore’s tourism industry during the F1 Grand Prix, has pleaded not guilty to 27 charges, including “obtaining fulfillment as a public servant.”
Prosecutors announced an indictment alleging Iswaran received gifts worth more than S$160,000 in return for promoting the business interests of real estate tycoon Ong Bentsen, as well as tickets to West End musicals and football matches. clarified the suspicion.
Mr Iswaran was arrested last year along with Mr Ong, who was instrumental in bringing F1 racing to Singapore in 2008. Mr. Ong is named in all of Mr. Iswaran’s charges, and in many cases as the party offering the bribes.
“I deny the charges and am innocent,” Iswaran wrote in a letter to Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong on Thursday.
In addition to announcing his resignation, he also said he would return his salary and benefits since an investigation into his case began last July.
Mr Iswaran, a veteran of the ruling People’s Action Party (PAP), was placed on administrative leave at the time of his arrest, but was still paid a monthly salary of S$8,500. As an MP, he also received an allowance of more than S$15,000 a month.
Singapore’s parliamentarians, including ministers, earn more than S$45,000 a month in a bid to fight corruption.
The former senior government official held a variety of positions including the Prime Minister’s Office, the Home Office, the Communications Ministry and the Transport Ministry.
His most notable role was at the Ministry of Trade and Industry, where he contributed significantly to Singapore’s tourism development from the late 2000s to 2010.
Singapore Prime Minister Lee on Thursday accepted Mr Iswaran’s resignation and said the government had dealt with the matter “strictly”.
“I am determined to uphold the integrity of our party and government, and our reputation for honesty and incorruption. I hope Singaporeans will do the same.”
The last time a minister faced a corruption investigation was in 1986, when National Development Minister Te Chang Wan was investigated for bribery. He took his own life before being charged.