SINGAPORE: The Law Society of Singapore (LawSoc) has officially appointed Professor Tan Cheng Han as its new president for 2026, concluding a weeks-long debate regarding the presidency. This transition follows Mr Dinesh Singh Dhillon’s earlier agreement to step aside amidst concerns regarding election legitimacy.
Major Decisions at Extraordinary General Meeting
On 22 December 2023, an extraordinary general meeting (EGM) was held, attracting around 500 lawyers. Heated discussions led to a resolution wherein Mr Dhillon agreed to step aside “in the interest of preserving unity” within the Bar. This agreement was reached after significant debate about the presidency being held by council-elected members.
Composition of the 2026 Council
With the confirmation of Tan’s presidency, Mr Dhillon will take on the role of vice-president alongside Mr Daniel Koh Choon Guan. Other key positions include:
- Treasurer: Ms Peggy Sarah Yee May Kuen
- Current president: Lisa Sam
The 2026 council will consist of 21 lawyers, with both elected and statutory members, as stipulated under the Legal Profession Act. Fifteen members are elected by LawSoc members, while the remainder includes statutory appointments by the Law Minister.
Remarks from Professor Tan
In a statement, Professor Tan expressed gratitude for the trust placed in him, recognising the challenges confronting the legal profession. He emphasised the importance of collaboration within the community: “We are at our best when we come together, whether we are completely in agreement or otherwise.”
Background to the Leadership Change
Initially elected by a majority on the LawSoc council, Mr Dhillon’s appointment had raised concerns due to his status as a statutory member, the first in LawSoc history. Many lawyers, led by senior lawyers Peter Cuthbert Low and Chandra Mohan K Nair, contested this process, arguing the presidency should be held by a council-elected member. Their call for an EGM culminated in the eventual decision that resulted in Professor Tan’s appointment.
The next steps include circulating proposed eligibility criteria for office bearers among the LawSoc membership, aimed at enhancing governance by ensuring that the president is elected from among council members.