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Thai PM frontrunner faces election probe

Thailand’s potential prime minister faces a probe that could disqualify him due to ownership of shares in a defunct media company, violating election laws. The investigation, expected to last for an undetermined period, may result in disqualification and a jail term of up to 10 years. The ruling party remains confident and emphasizes the importance of people power and adherence to constitutional principles. The outcome of this investigation will impact the formation of the new government and may lead to further political unrest.

Minister Sim Ann announces plan to double PPHS flat supply in response to increased demand

Speaking at the Institute of Policy Studies’ 35th anniversary conference, Senior Minister of State for National Development, Sim Ann, announced a doubling of the Parenthood Provisional Housing Scheme (PPHS) supply to 4,000 units over the next two years. The scheme provides temporary housing for families awaiting the completion of their new flats. This comes in response to longer waiting times due to COVID-19 delays. Despite reduced application rates, the demand remains high, prompting consideration of strategies like flat sharing to maximize the PPHS flat pool.

Harvey Norman Ossia Founder George Goh announces his intention to run for the Singapore presidency

George Goh, founder of Harvey Norman Ossia, has officially announced his candidacy for the Singapore presidency, confirming earlier rumors. His media team stated that he will run as an independent candidate, emphasizing his lack of political party affiliations or baggage. Coming from a background of poverty, Goh started his entrepreneurial journey at 22 and built a business empire spanning 14 countries. He is known for his philanthropic efforts through the Border Mission Charitable Foundation and also serves as the Singapore Ambassador to the Kingdom of Morocco.

Tharman expresses desire for contest in upcoming presidential election

Senior Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam, preparing to run in the upcoming presidential election, stresses his desire for a contest at an event on Sunday and assures his independence from the People’s Action Party (PAP) if elected. Speaking to local media, Mr Tharman downplayed concerns that his popularity may deter other potential candidates. “We have to see who comes up. But I certainly much prefer a contest,” he said, adding that he embraces competition as an opportunity to prove himself. “Having a contest is important for me. I much rather win or lose with the contest.” His candidacy sparks criticism, particularly from Reform Party’s Secretary General, Kenneth Jeyaretnam, who highlights potential conflicts of interest arising from Tharman’s extensive governmental roles.

Trump lawyer: Docs were de-classified or ‘mementos’

Donald Trump’s lawyer argued that his federal charges for mishandling secret documents are politically motivated. Trump faces 37 charges, including violations of the Espionage Act, but his lawyer claims he did nothing wrong and won’t admit guilt. Former Attorney General Bill Barr stated that if even half the indictment is true, Trump is in serious trouble. The charges carry up to 20 years in prison, and Trump’s defiance and support among Republicans highlight the country’s political polarization.

Jeyaretnam questions Tharman’s eligibility for presidency, citing father’s rejection and Tharman’s past conviction

Reform Party Secretary General, Kenneth Jeyaretnam, questions Tharman Shanmugaratnam’s eligibility for presidency, scrutinising his political history and previous conviction. Mr Jeyaretnam raises concerns about potential conflict of interest given Mr Tharman’s former role as Finance Minister and his alleged lack of commitment to checks and balances. He further criticizes the People’s Action Party’s disregard for conventional checks and balances in the context of Tharman’s candidacy.

Protest at U.S. Embassy in Kuala Lumpur over Comedian Jocelyn Chia’s remarks on MH370 Tragedy

Outrage ensues as around 100 Malaysians protest at the U.S. Embassy in Kuala Lumpur against former Singaporean comedian Jocelyn Chia’s distasteful remarks about Malaysia and the MH370 tragedy during a show in the U.S. Chia’s comments have sparked widespread condemnation, leading to calls for her ban from Malaysia and an investigation by the U.S. government.

Red Dot United sends letter to Prime Minister to call for by-election in Jurong GRC

Following Senior Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam’s announced resignation, Red Dot United (RDU) issued a call to Prime Minister Lee for a by-election in Jurong GRC. Despite the Apex Court’s ruling, RDU urged the PM to uphold democratic values and call a by-election.

Japan revises law to ease deportation of failed asylum seekers

Japan passed a controversial immigration law allowing the deportation of failed asylum seekers after three rejections. Critics argue that the new law violates human rights and puts lives at risk. Japan’s low acceptance rate for refugees and scrutiny of immigration detention conditions have been subjects of criticism in recent years. Activists and opposition parties staged protests against the revised law, but the ruling coalition voted it down. The government claims the changes will improve access to medical care and accommodation options for pending asylum seekers. Amnesty International has called for the revision to be scrapped, labeling Japan’s detention policies as harsh and repressive.

How do you take the PAP out of the PAP man?

Senior Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam’s resignation from the party and government positions to run for the presidential election may seem like a break from the People’s Action Party (PAP). But it’s not that simple, says Augustine Low. Mr Tharman has been a dedicated PAP member for decades, and his ties to the party cannot be severed so easily. The PAP has a vested interest in ensuring that the elected president is always affiliated with the party. Mr Tharman’s resignation and candidacy are likely to be part of a scripted game orchestrated by the PAP, similar to the case of Mdm Halimah Yacob.