Law Society says it is required by law to initiate disciplinary proceedings against Pritam Singh

by Rachel Morgan News Editor

Singapore – The Law Society of Singapore initiated disciplinary proceedings against Workers’ Party chief Pritam Singh on March 4, as required by the Legal Profession Act. This action followed the Attorney-General’s Chambers informing the Law Society of Mr. Singh’s conviction on offenses involving “fraud or dishonesty.”

Background

Mr. Singh, a Member of Parliament for Aljunied GRC and a non-practising lawyer, was convicted in February 2025 on two counts of lying under oath to the Committee of Privileges. The conviction stemmed from events related to false statements made by former Workers’ Party MP Raeesah Khan in 2021 concerning details of a sexual assault case.

Did You Know? The Legal Profession Act mandates that the Law Society apply to the court for disciplinary action against any legal practitioner convicted of an offense involving fraud or dishonesty.

Mr. Singh subsequently lost his appeal against the conviction in December 2025 and paid a $14,000 fine. On January 14, Parliament passed a motion deeming him unfit to continue as Leader of the Opposition, and he was formally removed from the position by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong on January 15.

Potential Consequences

The Law Society spokesperson stated that, as the matter is before the court, no further comment would be made. Possible sanctions resulting from the disciplinary proceedings include being struck off the rolls, a financial penalty of up to $100,000, or censure.

Expert Insight: Disciplinary proceedings against a political leader, even one who is not actively practicing law, carry significant weight. The outcome could have ramifications for both Mr. Singh’s personal standing and the public’s perception of the Workers’ Party.

The Workers’ Party has as well established a disciplinary panel, comprised of MPs He Ting Ru and Jamus Lim, and former MP Png Eng Huat, to investigate whether Mr. Singh breached the party’s constitution in light of his conviction.

Frequently Asked Questions

When were the disciplinary proceedings initiated?

The Law Society of Singapore initiated the disciplinary proceedings against Pritam Singh on March 4.

What was the basis for the proceedings?

The proceedings were initiated based on information received from the Attorney-General’s Chambers regarding Mr. Singh’s conviction on offenses involving “fraud or dishonesty.”

What are the possible outcomes of the disciplinary proceedings?

Possible sanctions include being struck off the rolls, a financial penalty of up to $100,000, or censure.

As this case unfolds, will the multiple investigations – by the Law Society, Parliament, and the Workers’ Party itself – influence public trust in Singapore’s political institutions?

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