Pritam Singh grills Chan Chun Sing on gerrymandering and LKY's position on boundary reviews

During the parliamentary debate on the motion to review the electoral boundary review process, Leader of the Opposition Pritam Singh questioned Minister Chan Chun Sing. Pritam cited a 1983 statement by Lee Kuan Yew, noting that electoral boundary committees were to consist solely of civil servants unless a credible opposition existed, and asked if Chan's comments marked a departure from this practice.

Pritam also sought a direct answer from Chan on whether there is gerrymandering in Singapore, referencing the Minister’s earlier comments about the Electoral Boundaries Review Committee taking note of close electoral contests in previous elections.

In response, Chan Chun Sing reiterated his trust in civil servants to handle the electoral boundary process impartially, avoiding political interference. He stated that the process remains unchanged to prevent the kind of political horse-trading seen in other countries. Chan expressed confidence in the civil servants' objectivity and professionalism, emphasizing that they have served Singapore well.

Chan also noted that the future government's approach could differ, depending on its leadership and priorities, but any changes would need to be justified in Parliament. He argued that while past practices inform current processes, they should not constrain the evolution of systems to meet contemporary needs.

Regarding gerrymandering, Chan sidestepped the direct question, reiterating his explanation of its implications in other countries and leaving it to the House and public to interpret his comments on its relevance to Singapore.