In an exclusive interview, Lee Hsien Yang, a prominent member of Singapore’s influential political family, shared his views on the country’s political climate following his recent asylum in the UK. He described Singapore not as a “paradise,” but rather as a place overshadowed by authoritarian rule, particularly under the regime his brother inherited.

“Despite Singapore’s remarkable economic achievements, there exists a darker reality—the government’s repressive nature,” Lee Hsien Yang stated. “What many perceive as paradise simply isn’t true.”

Lee, who has publicly supported opposition to the government after a significant family rift, asserts that the authorities have targeted him, his wife, and his son through unfounded legal actions. These escalated to such an extent that he felt compelled to leave Singapore for his personal safety.

“It’s quite uncommon for a ruling elite that prides itself on integrity to face such a stark denunciation from one of its own,” he noted, referencing the tight grip of the government on dissent. He expressed concerns over Singapore’s role in international corruption, stating, “People must look past the bold yet misleading claims about Singapore and understand the reality beneath.”

He pointed out that Singapore serves as a significant facilitator of illegal activities, including arms and drug trades, as well as money laundering. In response, a Singapore government spokesperson emphasized the country’s effective systems for combating illicit financial activities and highlighted its high ranking in Transparency International’s corruption perception index.

Lee Hsien Yang’s father, Lee Kuan Yew, was pivotal in transforming Singapore from a struggling colony into a thriving economy. However, his reign was also marked by the imprisonment of opposition leaders and tight restrictions on freedom. After stepping down, he continued to exert influence through his son, Lee Hsien Loong, who was prime minister for 20 years until recently. Human Rights Watch has labeled the current climate in Singapore as “overwhelmingly repressive.”

Reflecting on his family legacy, Lee Hsien Yang remarked, “Singapore maintains a polished façade, presenting itself as a beacon of the rule of law while retaining deeply ingrained repressive measures, many of which date back to my father’s tenure.”

The family discord deepened following their father’s death in 2015, particularly regarding his residence. While Lee Kuan Yew wished for the house to be demolished, a dispute arose when Lee Hsien Loong claimed their father was open to government input on the matter. This disagreement set off a series of legal conflicts.

In 2017, Lee Hsien Yang’s son faced accusations for comments suggesting Singapore’s court system lacked independence, culminating in a fine. Subsequent legal actions targeted his wife over her involvement with her father-in-law’s estate, resulting in a 15-month suspension from practicing law. Both are now under investigation for alleged perjury.

Lee Hsien Yang’s political engagement escalated in 2020 when he joined an opposition party, believing the allegations against him to be politically motivated. Since being granted asylum in August, he perceives it as recognition of the persecution he has faced in Singapore.

When reflecting on his brother’s involvement, he suggested that actions against him could not have occurred without the consent of Lee Hsien Loong. In contrast, a government spokesperson maintained that Lee Hsien Yang and his family are free to return to Singapore, rejecting claims of unfounded persecution and affirming the independence of the judiciary.

In a region where political expression is often controlled, Lee Hsien Yang’s revelations serve as a stark reminder of the complexities behind Singapore’s facade of stability and prosperity.