Singapore PMO Accused of Abusing Law to Target Independent News Platform
Singapore's Prime Minister's Office has been accused of abusing the law to target independent news platform New Naratif. The platform believes it is part of a long-standing campaign of intimidation. The controversy stems from a police report filed against New Naratif for boosting election-related news during the 2020 general election.
The Singapore Elections Department filed the report, alleging that New Naratif's actions were equivalent to publishing paid advertisements without prior written authority from a candidate or their election agent, as required by the Parliamentary Elections Act. New Naratif boosted 13 election-related news and feature stories on Facebook from June 30 to July 10.
The police report was created by an unspecified entity, with search results failing to identify the specific person or organization responsible. Dr Thum Ping Tjin, New Naratif's founder and managing director, was questioned by police for four and a half hours and had his laptop confiscated. Several academics in Asia sent a letter to the Singapore government expressing concern about the investigation.
Human rights groups have highlighted how the law can be arbitrarily used to criminalize political speech, with the provision being vague and allowing for censorship. Red Dot United, a local political party, has suggested reviewing legislation that hinders public participation in politics due to overly broad laws and regulations. Several political groups and media freedom advocates have expressed solidarity with New Naratif, criticizing the overbroad definitions of 'election activity' and 'election advertising' under the act.
New Naratif condemns the use of the law to harass independent media and critics, and denounces the lack of independence of the Singapore Elections Department. The incident has sparked debate about the need for clearer definitions and protections for freedom of speech in Singapore's election laws.
