Pritam disappointed by appeal loss, but ‘respects and accepts judgment fully without reservation’

WP chief says he takes responsibility for taking too long to respond to MP’s lie

- Esther Loi

Pritam Singh speaking to the media outside the Supreme Court on Dec 4. Mr Singh had appealed against his conviction for lying to the Committee of Privileges.

(ST PHOTO: AZMI ATHNI)

Leader of the Opposition Pritam Singh said on Dec 4 that he was disappointed that his appeal against conviction for lying to the Committee of Privileges was dismissed, but that he accepted the judgment fully.

“While I am disappointed with the verdict, I respect and accept the judgment fully and without reservation,” he said.

In a short hearing to a packed court, Court of Appeal judge Steven Chong had said Mr Singh’s conviction was supported by the evidence provided.

Speaking to the media outside the Supreme Court after paying his outstanding fines, Mr Singh, a trained lawyer, said: “First and foremost, the Supreme Court is a vital pillar of our constitutional framework.

“I have always had deep respect for the independence, rigour and professionalism of the courts.”

He added: “I certainly took too long to respond to Raeesah’s lie in Parliament. I take responsibility for that.”