In an article penned by K. Jeyaretnam, Secretary General of the Reform Party, questioned Tharman’s bid for the presidency. Jeyaretnam raised concerns about Tharman’s character, past associations, and criminal conviction, while also questioning the PAP’s commitment to democracy and checks and balances. Jeyaretnam also noted that the tightening of criteria for presidential candidates seemed designed to ensure Tharman’s election without any opposition.
Jeyaretnam’s personal acquaintance with Tharman during their time as students at Cambridge University. The author claimed that Tharman, at that time, appeared to be left-leaning and supportive of Marxist economic theory. However, Jeyaretnam recounted how Tharman distanced himself upon returning to Singapore, avoiding any contact out of fear that associating with the author, who was linked to the Opposition, could harm his career.
Jeyaretnam highlighted Tharman’s criminal conviction for a breach under the Official Secrets Act, relating to the disclosure of GDP growth figures. Although acquitted of the original charge, Tharman was found guilty of negligence, leading to a conviction. The author argued that someone with this conviction should not be entrusted with the responsibility of safeguarding state assets as the President.
He also suggested that changes in eligibility criteria, were introduced to exclude candidates like Tan Cheng Bock. Despite these changes, Jeyaretnam pointed out that Tharman would become the third consecutive Indian President if elected, raising questions about the PAP’s commitment to diversity.
Jeyaretnam criticized the perceived lack of appreciation for democratic principles among Singaporeans and accused Tharman, as a former Finance Minister, of presenting “fraudulent accounts” in every budget. He expressed concerns about Tharman’s current roles and the potential conflict of interest, given his previous responsibilities in managing reserves and his current oversight of checking their past management.
Recently, Jeyaretnam wrote an open letter to the President, requesting an independent inquiry into the management of Ridout Road properties and the Ministers residing there. The author criticized Tharman’s silence on the matter and highlighted a previous interview where Tharman described himself as a back-up driver defending the PAP government, implying a lack of independence and checks and balances.
As the presidential election approaches, the criticisms voiced by Jeyaretnam are likely to add to the ongoing discussions surrounding Tharman’s candidacy and the PAP’s leadership.
