Auditor-General’s Office unearths major lapses in COVID-19 grant disbursement and money management by grassroots organisations
The latest audit report from Singapore’s Auditor-General’s Office (AGO) revealed significant lapses in the management and disbursement of key COVID-19 grant schemes. The findings included over-disbursement by the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore and regulatory violations at People’s Association, exposing weaknesses in financial controls, risk assessment, and documentation across several public agencies.
Thai reformist suspended from parliament in fresh blow to PM bid
Thailand’s constitutional court suspends reformist Pita Limjaroenrat, obstructing his bid for prime minister after a significant election victory.
The court will decide if he should be disqualified from parliament due to share ownership in a media company. Political tensions and potential protests loom.
Beijing appoints Hong Kong national security commissioner
Beijing has appointed Dong Jingwei as Hong Kong’s commissioner of national security, overseeing Chinese security agents in the city under the national security law.
The position had been vacant since January. The move comes as Hong Kong plans to create a law focused on espionage.
Trump says he expects to be indicted in Capitol riot probe
Former US President Donald Trump said he expects to be charged for the January 6 Capitol attack, adding to his legal troubles as he eyes another White House run. He is already facing criminal charges for mishandling classified documents. The exact charges for 6 January are not clear.
Former GIC Chief Investment Officer Ng Kok Song announces intent to run for Singapore presidency
Ng Kok Song, former Chief Investment Officer of GIC, has announced on his website his intention to run for the Singapore presidency. His potential bid raises questions about qualification criteria, given his current role as the executive chairman of Avanda Investment Management.
US soldier who crossed into North Korea had served time in South Korean jail: official
A US soldier, Travis King, believed to be in North Korean custody after crossing the border without authorization, had served time in a South Korean prison for assault charges. Efforts are underway to resolve the incident between the United Nations Command and North Korea’s military.
