Lee Hsien Yang seeks political asylum in the UK, Singapore denies allegation of criminal prosecution

Mr. Lee Hsien Yang, the younger son of Singapore’s founding prime minister Lee Kuan Yew, announced in an Oct 22 Facebook post that he sought asylum in the UK in 2022 due to fears of persecution by the Singapore government.

He claims the authorities prosecuted his son, initiated disciplinary actions against his wife, and launched a long-standing police investigation into him.

Although still a Singapore citizen, Lee expressed hope to return when it is safe.

He cited a 2017 statement, made with his sister Dr. Lee Wei Ling, voicing distrust in their brother, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, and alleging misuse of state power against their family.

The issue resurfaced after Dr. Lee Wei Ling’s recent death.

Mr. Lee Hsien Yang stated he could not attend her funeral due to safety concerns, while Singapore police emphasized there are no legal barriers preventing his return.

In 2020, both the court and a Disciplinary Tribunal found Mr. Lee and his wife, Lee Suet Fern, had lied under oath during disciplinary proceedings related to the handling of Lee Kuan Yew’s will, particularly the inclusion of a clause about demolishing the family home at 38 Oxley Road.

As a result of these findings, police launched investigations into the couple for potentially giving false evidence.

After confirming they would cooperate, they left Singapore on June 15, 2022, and later informed the police they would not participate in the investigation.