Shocking Revelations from Raeesah Khan's Testimony in Pritam Singh's High-Profile Trial

SINGAPORE: In a groundbreaking trial that has captured national attention, former Workers' Party (WP) Member of Parliament Raeesah Khan took the stand on October 14, 2023, shedding light on her controversial interactions with WP secretary-general Pritam Singh. Khan's testimony marks the first time a Leader of the Opposition has faced prosecution of this kind.

Khan became a pivotal witness for the prosecution after she confessed in parliament on August 3, 2021, about an alleged incident where she purportedly accompanied a rape victim to a police station. This claim was later exposed as a fabrication, leading to a stringent investigation by a Committee of Privileges (COP). Khan was subsequently fined S$35,000 (approximately US$26,750) and Singh now faces serious charges under the Parliament (Privileges, Immunities and Powers) Act for allegedly providing two false statements during the inquiry into her conduct.

During her highly publicized testimony, which was her first since resigning from WP, Khan described Singh as a mentor she greatly admired. She recounted how she got involved with the WP through volunteering at Singh's community events before being invited to run for office. Her experience, however, was marred by the resurfacing of controversial posts she made nearly a decade ago, which added to her pressures as an incoming MP.

Khan’s recounting of her time in office touched on her feelings of isolation and insecurity, complicated further by her admission that the anecdote shared in parliament was added just days prior to her speech. Notably, she revealed that Singh had urged her to substantiate this anecdote but did not engage her in further discussions about its veracity.

As Khan spoke, revelations emerged about her emotional struggle, particularly around her initial silence regarding the truth behind her false story. She conveyed feelings of fear and self-doubt when confronted about the matter, including an anxiety over what revealing the truth might mean for her personally and for other survivors of assault.

In a dramatic twist, Khan recounted how Singh suggested during a subsequent meeting that they would have to take their knowledge of the situation 'to the grave,' indicating a desire to conceal the truth rather than address it publicly. This exchange has raised eyebrows regarding the ethical responsibilities of political leaders towards their constituents and their own party members.

The trial not only shines a light on the complexity of political alliances but also raises important questions about accountability and the moral fabric of public office. Singh is currently fighting two charges, each carrying a potential three-year prison sentence, a fine, or both.

As the court deliberates, the implications of these revelations are vast, with potential consequences for WP's reputation and the political landscape in Singapore. Khan's testimony against Singh is expected to continue to stir public interest and media scrutiny in the days to come. Stay tuned for more developments on this unfolding story that could redefine political accountability in Singapore.