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Singapore’s Lee says political succession ‘back on track’

SINGAPORE (CNA) – With the end of the COVID-19, succession plans are “back on track”, said Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong on Sunday, adding that recent controversies will not delay the timetable for political renewal.

Speaking at his 19th National Day Rally, Lee said leadership renewal is a “crucial task” in preparing for Singapore’s future.

Lee previously said he hoped to step down before his 70th birthday, which was in February 2022. However, this was disrupted by the pandemic.

“I promised Singaporeans that I would see the nation through the crisis, together with both the current and the fourth generation leadership,” he said.

“Now COVID is behind us, and my succession plans are back on track.”

He noted that several controversial issues involving ministers and Members of Parliament have drawn the attention of Singaporeans of late.

Recent incidents that made the headlines include the arrest of Transport Minister S Iswaran by the Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau, the resignations of Speaker of Parliament Tan Chuan-Jin and MP Cheng Li Hui over an affair, as well as allegations, which were subsequently found to have no basis, of preferential treatment in the rental of state properties by two Cabinet ministers.

Noting that he has spoken about these issues in parliament and more recently in his National Day message, Lee said: “We dealt with each of them thoroughly and transparently.

“Let me assure you: These incidents will not delay my timetable for renewal. We are on track.”

Singapore’s Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong at the National Day Rally on August 20. PHOTO: CNA SOURCE
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