Lee Hsien Yang donated money to Leong Sze Hian for defence against PM Lee's defamation suit: TOC

Lee Hsien Yang confirmed it.

Belmont Lay | December 26, 2018, 10:35 PM

The Online Citizen has reported that Lee Hsien Yang has donated a sum of money to blogger-activist, Leong Sze Hian.

Lee Hsien Yang is the younger brother of Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.

Leong is being sued by PM Lee for defamation.

In response to TOC's query, Lee Hsien Yang confirmed that he had contributed to Leong's legal fund, but did not say how much was donated.

In response to media queries, Chang Li Lin, the press secretary to the Prime Minister, said "the matter is before the courts and that the Prime Minister will continue to take legal advice on developments".

"Mr Lee reserves the right to take legal action against other parties who similarly defame him," she previously said.

Many have donated

In response to TOC's query if he has plans for any fundraising, Leong shared that "many have approached him to express their interest to contribute to his legal funds and already some had contributed to it", TOC said.

Leong also told TOC that he hopes to see S$10,000 in contributions to his legal fund.

His target amount will not be sufficient to pay for the legal fees, Leong said.

But he hopes it will send a message.

Leong said: "Singaporeans must let our overpaid ministers know once and for all, that it does not pay to sue ordinary citizens for defamation. Singaporeans and their children, and their children's children will never have to fear being sued, for exercising their rights of freedom of expression."

Leong's comments comes on the back of two previous statements where he said he was unable to say more as the case is before the courts, but proceeded to make more statements.

Developments

The latest development in this whirlwind turn of events on Dec. 26 saw Leong announcing his countersuit against PM Lee.

Leong said he will be represented by opposition politician Lim Tean, who is also a lawyer.

Lim, from Carson Law Chambers, has also announced his decision to defend Leong against the defamation suit.

Leong said he is launching a countersuit against PM Lee for abusing the court process.