Speaker of Parliament in Singapore and Member of Parliament Resigns Due to an ‘Inappropriate Relationship’

July 17 (UPI) — Singapore’s Parliament Speaker, Tan Chuan-Jin, and Member of Parliament Cheng Li Hui have resigned from the ruling People’s Action Party due to their involvement in an “inappropriate relationship,” announced Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.

“Maintaining high standards of propriety and personal conduct, along with maintaining integrity and being incorruptible, are the foundation of Singaporeans’ trust and respect for the PAP,” stated Lee during a news conference on Monday.

“Without party discipline and integrity, we are nothing. Therefore, this is an absolute requirement.”

Deputy Speaker Jessica Tan will serve as the acting speaker until Lee nominates a new speaker on August 1, as reported by Yahoo! News.

Tan Chuan-Jin, who is married with children, previously stirred controversy for his inappropriate language caught on a hot mic during a debate.

“Personally, this recent episode has added to the pain I have caused my family,” stated Tan Chuan-Jin in a letter to Lee. “There are areas where I have fallen short. I need to take responsibility for them and support my family.”

Edwin Tong will assume Tan Chuan-Jin’s MP responsibilities, and Masagos Zulkifli will handle Cheng Li Hui’s responsibilities. The next general election is scheduled for 2025, and Lee mentioned that he does not plan to call for an immediate election.

This announcement marks the latest controversy surrounding Singapore’s leaders. The Corrupt Practices Investigation Bureau is currently investigating Transport Minister S. Iswaran and businessman Ong Beng Seng in a high-profile graft probe.

“Sometimes things go wrong, and we must rectify them,” said Lee. “We need to ensure that we deal with issues rigorously and transparently, demonstrating to everyone that we are taking action.”