Singapore corruption trial

Singapore's former transport minister S. Iswaran is set to stand trial starting September 24 for 35 charges, including corruption and obstruction of justice, marking the first major political graft trial in nearly four decades. Iswaran, who resigned in January, is accused of accepting over S$403,000 ($312,000) in luxury gifts from two businessmen, including tickets to high-profile events and valuable items like a Brompton bicycle. The charges are brought under a rarely enforced provision of the Penal Code that prohibits public officials from accepting gifts from individuals they interact with in their official capacity. This case has raised significant concerns about the integrity of the ruling People's Action Party (PAP), especially ahead of upcoming general elections. Iswaran maintains his innocence, claiming the gifts were from close friends and were not intended as bribes. The trial is closely watched, as its outcome could impact public trust in Singapore's traditionally low-corruption image.