Ex-Singapore Minister Iswaran Jailed for Bribery

Former Singaporean transport minister S. Iswaran was sentenced to 12 months in prison for bribery and obstruction of justice, marking the first instance of an ex-minister being jailed in Singapore since 1975. Iswaran pleaded guilty to accepting valuable gifts totaling over $300,000 from businessmen during his tenure, including tickets to sports events and a private jet ride. The case has been significant in Singapore, a nation renowned for its clean governance, and has tested the ruling People's Action Party's (PAP) reputation ahead of upcoming general elections. Despite previously denying the charges, Iswaran decided to plead guilty after prosecutors reduced the initial 35 charges to five. The sentence exceeded the prosecution's request for seven months and highlights Singapore's commitment to maintaining public sector integrity. Iswaran's conviction may set a precedent in the island nation known for its strict anti-corruption measures.