Lee Hsien Yang, the youngest son of Singapore's first prime minister, Lee Kuan Yew, has recently disclosed that he has been granted political asylum in the United Kingdom following allegations of political persecution by his brother, former prime minister Lee Hsien Loong. Yang asserts that the UK government recognized his fears of returning to Singapore amid continuous political pressure.
Lee Hsien Yang Claims Political Asylum in the UK, Accuses Brother of Persecution
Lee Hsien Yang Claims Political Asylum in the UK, Accuses Brother of Persecution
Lee Hsien Yang, son of Singapore's founding prime minister, reveals he has been granted asylum in Britain, citing political persecution from his brother's administration.
Lee Hsien Yang made the announcement on Tuesday via a statement on social media, adding that he had applied for asylum in June 2022 due to looming threats to his safety upon returning to Singapore. He described his situation as one he "never imagined" would happen in the land built by his father, conveying his sentiments in a phone interview while living in London.
The UK’s Home Office acknowledged his application in August, confirming that he had a “well-founded fear of persecution.” The authorization allows him to remain in the UK for five years, with the possibility of extending his stay beyond that period. As Yang and his wife have resided in London for two years, this decision marks a pivotal moment in a long-standing family rift within Singapore’s prominent political dynasty.
Lee Hsien Loong, who served as prime minister for two decades, interprets their family's dynamic differently. A spokesperson from the Singapore government swiftly dismissed claims of persecution, labeling them "baseless" and affording Yang and his family the freedom to return to Singapore whenever they choose.
The ongoing feud highlights the complexities within the Lee family and casts a shadow over the political legacy the elder Lee created. As the former prime minister remains influential within Singapore’s government, this public split raises questions about the future direction of the country's political landscape.
The UK’s Home Office acknowledged his application in August, confirming that he had a “well-founded fear of persecution.” The authorization allows him to remain in the UK for five years, with the possibility of extending his stay beyond that period. As Yang and his wife have resided in London for two years, this decision marks a pivotal moment in a long-standing family rift within Singapore’s prominent political dynasty.
Lee Hsien Loong, who served as prime minister for two decades, interprets their family's dynamic differently. A spokesperson from the Singapore government swiftly dismissed claims of persecution, labeling them "baseless" and affording Yang and his family the freedom to return to Singapore whenever they choose.
The ongoing feud highlights the complexities within the Lee family and casts a shadow over the political legacy the elder Lee created. As the former prime minister remains influential within Singapore’s government, this public split raises questions about the future direction of the country's political landscape.
