Singapore: Singapore's Indian-origin former transport minister S Iswaran began his one-year jail term in a corruption case this week, opting not to appeal his conviction. He apologized "unreservedly" to the nation. Iswaran, 62, was handed the jail sentence last week for obtaining illegal gifts worth about USD 313,200 over seven years from two businessmen, and for obstruction of justice. Another 30 charges were taken into consideration during sentencing.
“It was important to me that the public prosecutor amended the charges against me under the Prevention of Corruption Act to those under Section 165 of the Penal Code regarding the acceptance of gifts by public servants. I accept that as a minister what I did was wrong under Section 165. I accept full responsibility for my actions and apologize unreservedly to all Singaporeans,” Iswaran said.
Section 165 relates to a public servant obtaining valuable items from someone who could be connected in proceedings or business linked to him or his official functions.
