This morning (22 August 2023), Mr Tan Kin Lian took to his public Facebook page to issue a detailed media statement, yet interestingly slapped an embargo on it, requesting that it be published only after 1 pm today.
A news embargo, for those unfamiliar with the term, refers to the stipulation that certain information should only be revealed or published after a set date and time.
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However, this move baffled many. The reason being the press release was already up and available for viewing on his publicly accessible Facebook page.
Details from the Press Release
Mr Tan Kin Lian’s press release contained some significant allegations, particularly concerning a smear campaign related to decade-old Facebook posts of his. These particular posts referenced “pretty girls” whom Mr Tan chanced upon in various circumstances. An anonymous individual, expressing evident discomfort, had flagged these posts to the media.
Mr Tan initially dismissed these concerns, believing them to be isolated. But, the seriousness of the issue came into light when several prominent media entities, a notable women’s rights organization, and the presidential election committee began focusing on and discussing these posts in recent days.
Articulating his thoughts, Mr Tan commented, “It is becoming increasingly clear to me that there is a calculated and orchestrated effort by a specific group to tarnish my reputation. It seems to me that the editorial teams of the mainstream media might be entwined in this orchestrated smear campaign.”
In response to these allegations, Mr. Tan ardently defended his past posts. He emphasized that these posts, which have been in the public eye and viewed by a large number of people over the years, were generally perceived as “lighthearted and non-offensive.” Following the ensuing controversy, a considerable number of his supporters have not only dismissed these claims but also intensified their support for his campaign.
In the broader context of his statement, Mr. Tan alluded to the themes of “building trust” and “uniting the people.” These ideals, frequently promoted by the current administration, were juxtaposed by Mr. Tan with the recent critiques directed at him, leading him to question the genuine commitment behind these proclaimed ideals.
Clarifying Rumors
In a previous statement, Mr Tan seemed to suggest that a particular political party backing his chief opponent might be behind the attacks. He, however, did not delve into specifics. Subsequently, he rescinded this part of his statement.
Come Nomination Day, in a clarifying move, Mr. Tan unequivocally stated that these “malicious comments” did not originate from his direct competitors.
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He said Mr Tharman asked to speak to him, and he was quite gracious. He added, “He assured me that they are not from his team.
“I don’t think it is Mr Ng Kok Song,” he adds.
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