SINGAPORE — Singapore’s Parliament on Wednesday (14 January) passed a motion expressing regret over the conduct of Workers’ Party (WP) secretary-general Pritam Singh and concluding that he is unfit to serve as the Leader of the Opposition after a debate lasting more than three hours. 

The motion, introduced by Leader of the House Indranee Rajah, was supported by all People’s Action Party (PAP) Members of Parliament and the Nominated MPs present, while all Workers’ Party MPs — including ten elected and one Non-Constituency MP — registered their dissent and voted against it. 

During the debate, MPs from both sides addressed the motion’s core arguments and the implications of Mr Singh’s conduct for parliamentary integrity and public confidence. A total of 12 members rose to speak or seek clarifications, including representatives from the PAP, the WP, and independent Nominated MPs. 

The motion follows ongoing concerns about Mr Singh’s actions, particularly in light of his conviction for providing false testimony to a parliamentary committee — a ruling that critics say undermines expected standards for parliamentary leadership. 

In a statement submitted to Parliament, Ms Indranee reflected that the position of Leader of the Opposition carries significant duties and responsibilities, and that the motion was necessary to uphold the institution’s reputation and citizens’ trust. 

Despite the motion’s passage, Pritam Singh and his party maintain that the process is a political exercise and have reaffirmed their commitment to presenting alternative views in Singapore’s political discourse.