The courtroom was charged with tension on 6 November 2024 as Pritam Singh, the Workers’ Party chief, faced rigorous cross-examination by Deputy Attorney-General Ang Cheng Hock. Singh is currently contesting two charges of allegedly providing false information to the Committee of Privileges regarding the former WP MP Raeesah Khan’s lies in Parliament.
Testimony Under Fire
In a rapid-fire examination lasting nearly five hours, DAG Ang sought to highlight inconsistencies in Singh’s testimony. Notably, the prosecution focused on Singh’s various statements about the requirement for Khan to speak to her parents before she could come clean in Parliament.
- On 3 October 2021, Singh communicated with Khan about clarifying her story regarding her sexual assault.
- The following day, during an October parliamentary session, Khan reaffirmed her claim before admitting to the lie 1 November 2021.
Key Issues Addressed
During the examination, Ang pressed Singh on whether his position regarding Khan’s need to clear things with her parents had evolved. Singh maintained that his earlier testimony—that he believed Khan should take responsibility—remained true.
An especially heated exchange began when DAG Ang suggested Singh was not being entirely honest about his evidence. The prosecution pivoted to clarify the significance of the timing when Singh was persuaded that Khan was ready to admit her falsehood.
Critical Points from Cross-Examination
- Singh initially stated that Khan’s confession depended on discussing the matter with her parents.
- He later contended that circumstances had changed post-October 4, requiring Khan to prepare a statement.
The back-and-forth intensified as Ang accused Singh of altering his evidence. Singh continually refuted these claims, asserting that as a Member of Parliament, he had no doubt about Khan’s ability to confront her lie.
Ongoing Legal Proceedings
The trial, now nearing its twelfth day, shows no signs of abating. It touches on broader implications regarding the responsibilities of public figures and the scrutiny they face when addressing serious allegations.
With this pivotal court case unfolding, Singaporeans watch closely, reflecting on the integrity of political leadership and the consequences of falsehoods within Parliament.