Gerald Giam on Constitution of the Republic of Singapore (Amendment No. 3) Bill

Allowing Singapore’s President to take on external appointments in his private capacity could detract from his substantial public duties when “it is only reasonable” for Singaporeans to expect that he dedicates his time and energy to fulfilling his national responsibilities. MP Gerald Giam said this in Parliament on Wednesday (Nov 22) when he explained why the Workers’ Party would vote against the Constitution of the Republic of Singapore (Amendment No. 3) Bill. Mr Giam pointed out that the presence of serving senior public officials from other countries in international organisations had “led to controversies” in the past. He asked if Mr Tharman Shanmugaratnam is the first Singapore President who will assume positions in foreign organisations in his private capacity and whether a comprehensive list of his external commitments, both present and potential, could be provided so that Parliament could ascertain the extent of his involvement and the expected annual time commitment. Mr Giam said a closer examination is needed on how the private roles, separate from official duties, will advance Singapore’s national interests, and how the Government will ensure that the President follows the Cabinet’s advice on what to say or do since many international organisations “hold their meetings behind closed doors in foreign countries”.