NSP says not contesting in Punggol East by—election

SINGAPORE: The National Solidarity Party (NSP) has said it appreciates the open and responsible way that the PAP has handled the discovery of the extra—marital affair of former Speaker of Parliament Michael Palmer.

In a media statement, NSP’s Secretary—General Hazel Poa said "regardless of his or her position, each person should be responsible and accountable for his/her actions." And "this is a principle we must uphold."

Ms Poa said the NSP noted with concern the rise in the number of high—profile cases of marital infidelities, and "urged the Social and Family Development Ministry to study if these are signs of a rising social problem, and if so, the underlying causes."

She said the impact of a social breakdown to a person’s quality of life can never be compensated by economic achievements.

On the possibility of a by—election at Punggol East, Ms Poa said the NSP has decided not to create a multi—cornered fight by contesting, "in the interest of furthering the opposition cause".

The Workers’ Party contested in the Punggol East single—member constituency (SMC) at the last election and has indicated its desire to do so again in the event of a by—election.

— CNA/de/ck