The trial against the Workers’ Party chief continues after the prosecution concludes its case.
On October 24, 2024, the prosecution concluded its case in the trial of Workers’ Party (WP) leader Pritam Singh. The trial, which centers on Singh’s alleged false testimony to a parliamentary committee, will resume on November 5, 2024, after both sides prepare written submissions.
Singh faces two charges for allegedly lying to the Committee of Privileges (COP) during an investigation into a lie told by former MP Raeesah Khan. The charges stem from his claims in August and October 2021 that he had wanted Khan to clarify her untruth in Parliament, a claim that the prosecution argues is false. The charges highlight Singh’s involvement in downplaying his responsibility in Khan’s lie, which she had admitted in November 2021.
The trial has seen testimony from key witnesses, including Khan, former WP members Loh Pei Ying, Yudhishthra Nathan, and former WP chief Low Thia Khiang. Khan’s account suggests Singh did not push her to tell the truth in Parliament, but instead allowed her to continue with the lie. The defence, however, has sought to challenge the credibility of the key witnesses, especially Khan, arguing that her testimony was inconsistent and unreliable.
The defence has also attempted to show that other witnesses aligned their testimonies to the COP and police, particularly focusing on the redaction of certain messages that allegedly pointed to Khan’s continued dishonesty.
Both sides now have until November 1 to finalize their submissions before the trial resumes on November 5, when Judge Luke Tan will decide if Singh should take the stand.
