Presidential Elections Committee Unaware of Controversial Social Media Posts by Candidate Tan Kin Lian
Singapore’s Presidential Elections Committee (PEC) has admitted that it was not aware of candidate Tan Kin Lian’s controversial social media posts before issuing him a certificate of eligibility. This revelation comes after concerns were raised by the Association of Women for Action and Research (AWARE) regarding Mr. Tan’s history of objectifying women on social media.
In response to media queries, the PEC clarified that the issuance of the certificate did not amount to an endorsement of Mr. Tan’s social media posts. Furthermore, the committee stated that it is not legally entitled to change its decision once the certificate has been issued.
The PEC also highlighted that it does not thoroughly review every applicant’s past social media posts before granting or denying a certificate of eligibility. However, if specific comments made by an applicant on social media or other platforms are brought to the committee’s attention before a decision is made, they would be taken into consideration during the assessment process.
AWARE’s concern was sparked by a viral TikTok video showcasing Mr. Tan’s posts about pretty girls. The women’s rights group argued that consistently objectifying women and reducing them solely to their appearances is dehumanizing and disrespectful.
Following the PEC’s statement, the responsibility now falls on the voters to consider the additional facts that have come to light and make an informed decision when casting their votes in the upcoming Presidential Election.
While this issue has highlighted the importance of thoroughly vetting candidates, it also raises questions about the committee’s process for assessing eligibility. Critics argue that it is vital for the PEC to have access to all relevant information, including a candidate’s social media activity, to ensure transparency and accountability.
As the election approaches, it is crucial for voters to critically evaluate each candidate’s background, qualifications, and values. The controversy surrounding Mr. Tan’s social media posts serves as a reminder of the importance of holding candidates accountable for their actions and statements.
In conclusion, the Presidential Elections Committee was unaware of Tan Kin Lian’s controversial social media posts before issuing him the certificate of eligibility. The committee clarified that they do not review every applicant’s social media history but consider specific comments if brought to their attention. With the responsibility now on the voters, it is crucial to thoroughly evaluate candidates’ qualifications and values when casting their votes in the upcoming Presidential Election.
