Despite damage in reputation, Government's transparency can reinforce public trust: Observers

 

Political observers believe that the ongoing investigation involving Transport Minister S. Iswaran by CPIB may have a negative impact on the reputation of the People's Action Party (PAP). However, they also see it as a significant display of the government's unwavering commitment to maintaining a zero-tolerance stance against corruption and other offences, irrespective of the individual's position.

Asst Prof Walid Jumblatt Abdullah, from SSS@NTU’s Public Policy and Global Affairs programme, drew attention to the differences between this case and the previous Ridout Road case. He pointed out that the current investigation is not primarily centred on corruption but rather focuses on matters related to inequality. The seriousness of the situation led to Mr. Iswaran's decision to take a leave of absence while the CPIB conducted a thorough inquiry.

“The first one is not about corruption and for me, it is more about inequality. This case is very different. It was serious enough that Mr Iswaran was given a leave of absence and an investigation was launched by CPIB," he said.