The news of Lee Hsien Yang (LHY) and his sister Lee Wei Ling criticising their older brother PM Lee Hsien Loong, with Hsien Yang saying that he "will leave Singapore for the foreseeable future", is basically the only thing any Singaporean can talk about this morning.

Now indeed, as you might have noticed also, LHY has chosen an awkward time to make this bombshell announcement, when his older brother is not around.

He has been away on overseas leave since Saturday (June 10), and will only be back on June 17, the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) said in a statement.

Containing serious allegations of abuse of power and details of family grievances, the public statement by LHY and his sister Lee Wei Ling (LWL) against PM Lee, their elder brother and his wife Ho Ching, has compelled PM Lee to respond.

Here is PM Lee's response in full:

I am very disappointed that my siblings have chosen to issue a statement publicising private family matters. I am deeply saddened by the unfortunate allegations that they have made. Ho Ching and I deny these allegations, especially the absurd claim that I have political ambitions for my son.

While siblings may have differences, I believe that any such differences should stay in the family. Since my father’s passing in March 2015, as the eldest son I have tried my best to resolve the issues among us within the family, out of respect for our parents.

My siblings’ statement has hurt our father’s legacy.

I will do my utmost to continue to do right by my parents. At the same time, I will continue serving Singaporeans honestly and to the best of my ability. In particular that means upholding meritocracy, which is a fundamental value of our society.

As my siblings know, I am presently overseas on leave with my family. I will consider this matter further after I return this weekend.

You can also read it here: