The 2020 general election certainly had its fair share of drama.
In the lead up to the election, several politicians crossed swords on social media, including PAP MP Tan Wu Meng’s verbal battle with Worker’s Party (WP) secretary-general Pritam Singh.
Police reports also became as commonplace as Jamus Lim memes online, with 8 reports being lodged before the election, many of which were against high-ranking politicians or even political parties.
The election is long over, but that doesn’t mean it’s too late for some political drama.
Ho Ching Suddenly Posted That There Are People Who Donated ‘Without Making Any Public Announcement’
Soon after it was announced that WP chief Pritam Singh would receive an annual package of S$385,000 per year as the official Leader of the Opposition, Singh made a stunning announcement:
Yes, he said he would donate half of his increment (about $8,000 a month) to:
- low-income residents and community programmes in WP’s constituencies
- Charities or worthy causes
- Workers’ Party specific needs
Many applauded this move, but not everyone was impressed.
Ho Ching, wife of Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, shared a Facebook post today (29 July) in which she noted that there are “lots of folks” who donate “quietly, without making any public announcement”.
In her post, Ho said that “Some folks make public announcement (sic) of part of their donations, and still maintain privacy on the rest of their regular donations.”
We’re not entirely sure who she’s referring to with the phrase “some folks”. Do you?
“Other continue to donate anonymously. Yet others put their donations into their wills. But of course, not all are angels.”
She then went off on a slight tangent, talking about people who steal from their friends and loved ones.
“There are folks who will scheme to get money from others in their families, or friends, some by stealth, others by outright manipulation and cheating.
“Take all kinds – and only some may be caught by law.
“Everyone has to answer to their conscience, the Almighty, and their karma in time to come.”
Netizen Reaction
Some netizens agreed with Ho, saying there was no need for Singh to publicly announce his good deed.
Others disagreed, stating that transparency as a political leader is something all politicians should aspire to.
Either way, why has Singh chosen to donate half his salary?
Should Be Used For a “Greater Purpose”
In his Facebook post yesterday, Singh said that after putting his daughters to bed and having a discussion with his wife, both of them felt that the extra allowance “should be used for a greater purpose.”
He also clarified that while 50% of his salary would amount to $96K per annum, the actual amount will be less after tax deductions.
Netizens hailed him for his generosity and transparency.
It should be noted that Singh’s salary was published in several reputable news outlets, something which rarely happens for a politician in Singapore.
Many opposition parties, including the WP, have long complained about the astronomical salaries that MPs and ministers receive, so it makes sense that Singh chose to publicly announce his decision, considering his salary was made public as well.
In addition to his increase in remuneration, Singh will also get the appropriate staff support and resources to perform his duties, as well as the following privileges:
- The right of first response to ask the lead questions to ministers on policies, bills, and motions
- Longer speaking duration for speeches, equivalent to that given to political office holders
- Receiving confidential briefings by government on select matters of national security and external relations
- Allowance to hire up to three additional Legislative Assistants
- Provided an office and secretary to support administratively with Parliamentary business
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