Statement by PM Lawrence Wong on the Leader of the Opposition

On 14 January 2026, Parliament voted to express regret over Mr Pritam Singh’s conduct, and to express its view that his conviction and conduct rendered him unsuitable to continue as the Leader of the Opposition (LO). 

During the Parliamentary debate, Mr Singh reiterated that he accepted the Court’s judgment, but said that he disagreed with the findings and maintained his innocence.  Mr Singh is entitled to his personal views on the matter. But questions of guilt or innocence are determined through the impartial court process. Mr Singh was convicted by the District Court of two counts of lying to the Committee of Privileges (COP), confirming the COP’s earlier findings. His appeal to the High Court was dismissed. This legal outcome is final and conclusive – it must be respected, and given full effect in determining his suitability to continue as the LO.

Having considered the matter carefully, I have decided that Mr Singh’s criminal convictions, taken together with Parliament’s considered view of his unsuitability, make it no longer tenable for him to continue as the LO. Mr Singh’s designation as the LO will therefore cease with immediate effect. This decision is necessary to uphold the rule of law, as well as the dignity and integrity of Parliament.  

I have invited the Workers’ Party to nominate another elected Member of Parliament to serve as the next LO. This nominee should not have been implicated in the earlier findings of the COP, and must be able to meet the high standards expected of this office. I hope to receive their nomination soon, so that this important position in our parliamentary democracy will not remain vacant for too long.

PM Wong's Letter to the Workers' Party's CEC