Former Singaporean transport minister S. Iswaran was sentenced to 12 months in prison on Thursday for obstruction of justice and accepting illegal gifts, according to local media. The case marks the city-state’s first political corruption trial in nearly 50 years.
Iswaran, once instrumental in bringing Formula One to Singapore, faced 35 charges earlier this year, mostly related to corruption in a country renowned for its clean governance. Prosecutors ultimately pursued five lesser charges, some connected to a billionaire property tycoon.
After being convicted last week, prosecutors sought a sentence of six to seven months, while Iswaran’s defence argued for a maximum of eight weeks. His conviction and subsequent sentencing have been seen as politically significant, with potential implications for the ruling People’s Action Party ahead of general elections expected next year.
Iswaran resigned in January after being formally charged, which included receiving gifts exceeding $300,000 in value. He has since repaid approximately $295,000, with additional items such as a Brompton bicycle being seized. Among the charges were attempts to obstruct an investigation into a luxury business class flight provided by Malaysian hotel tycoon Ong Beng Seng.
The case has raised questions about corruption in Singapore, a nation where public servants are paid competitive salaries to discourage such behaviour. Although Iswaran has been convicted, Ong and other businessmen linked to the case have not faced charges.