Andre Low apologises for 'inappropriate' language, remarks in leaked Telegram messages

Mr Andre Low, the opposition WP's Jalan Kayu candidate, has apologised for his use of vulgarities and "completely inappropriate" remarks in a series of text messages that were leaked on social media.

- Wong Pei Ting and Sue-Ann Tan

In a Facebook post in the early hours of April 30, Mr Low said the leaked Telegram messages were from a private chat among his business school classmates.

Many of the messages date back to the Covid-19 period, when "we ranted to each other while cooped up at home", said Mr Low, 33.

More than 30 screenshots of text messages said to be from Mr Low were posted on Reddit.

Speaking to Chinese daily Lianhe Zaobao at a walkabout in Fernvale Hawker Centre on April 30, Mr Low said: "I make no excuses. The language I used was inappropriate.

Stepping up as an opposition candidate, I had the expectation that something like this happening might be a possibility... But I think I am ready to stand up and be counted, and I hope Singaporeans and Jalan Kayu residents can see the sincerity I bring to the table."

When asked if he would withdraw from politics - like PAP candidate Ivan Lim did in the 2020 election — he said he had no comment.

Mr Lim left politics after allegations about his past conduct and behaviour emerged online.

Mr Low, a disputes lawyer turned staff product manager, said: "We all run our own campaigns. The messages were not exchanged during this election campaign. People can form their own opinions, and I will leave them to draw whatever conclusions they want."