Iswaran says he will not be appealing 12-month jail sentence

Former Transport Minister S Iswaran said he will not be appealing his 12-month jail sentence.

In a statement on Facebook today (Oct. 7), the day he is scheduled to begin his sentence, Iswaran said it was important to him that the Public Prosecutor amended his charges under the Prevention of Corruption Act to those under section 165 of the Penal Code regarding the acceptance of gifts by public servants.

Iswaran added that he accepted what he did while he was a minister was wrong under section 165.

He had pleaded guilty to four charges under section 165, and one charge of obstruction of justice.

"I accept full responsibility for my actions and apologise unreservedly to all Singaporeans," he said.

Family's wellbeing also weighed on his mind

Iswaran also pointed out that his family's wellbeing was on his mind.

The emotional toll of a long trial — which he said could have extended "well into 2025" — on his loved ones also weighed "heavily" on him.

"The past 15 months have already been most difficult," he said.

Iswaran then ended on a note of gratitude, thanking his family, friends, grassroots leaders and lawyers.

He wrote:

"With this decision, I hope that we can put the pain and anguish behind us, move forward and rebuild our lives together.

I thank all who have stood resolutely by me and helped me face the darkest hours with strength. I am so very touched by my family’s love, prayers and support. I am indebted to my friends and grassroots leaders for their unstinting support, faith and encouragement. I am grateful to my lawyers, and also to the many who have expressed their concern and support for me, in person and through social media.

Serving my constituents and Singaporeans over the past three decades has been the greatest honour of my life. As this chapter of my life comes to a close, my family and I look to the future with gratitude and renewed hope."

Top photo via Andrew Koay/Mothership