Lee Hsien Yang Claims Asylum in UK, Citing Persecution by Singapore Government
Lee Hsien Yang, the youngest son of the founder of modern Singapore, Lee Kuan Yew, has made a startling announcement: he is now a political refugee seeking asylum in the United Kingdom under the UN Refugee Convention.
Background: Estrangement and Family Feud
Hsien Yang has been at odds with his brother, Lee Hsien Loong, who was the prime minister of Singapore from 2004 to 2024, over what to do with their father’s home after his death in 2015. The siblings have been estranged since then.
Asylum Protection Sought
In a recent Facebook post, Hsien Yang stated that he had sought asylum protection in 2022 due to government persecution against him and his family. Unfortunately, this made it impossible for him to return to Singapore for his sister’s funeral, Wei Ling, who passed away on October 9.
Singapore Government Response: "Persecution Claim is Baseless and Unfounded"
In response to Hsien Yang’s claim, the Singapore government has denied any involvement in persecution, calling it "baseless and unfounded" according to ChannelNewsAsia. The UK’s high commission in Singapore has yet to comment on the matter.
Stem Cell Entrepreneur’s Plea for Justice
As a prominent figure in the stem cell industry, Hsien Yang has been known for his work in the field. His asylum claim is seen as a desperate attempt to ensure his safety and the safety of his family, which has been marred by the ongoing feud with his brother.
Concerns Over Family Home Demolition
Hsien Yang has also announced plans to demolish his father’s home, as per his father’s wishes. The Singapore government has yet to comment on the matter, citing that it will consider the issue in due course.
Conclusion
Lee Hsien Yang’s asylum claim is a poignant reminder of the complexities and tensions within the Lee family. With the Singapore government denying any involvement in persecution, it remains to be seen how this situation will unfold. Will the Singaporean government respond to Hsien Yang’s claims, and what implications will this have on the family’s relationship? Only time will tell.
FAQs
Q: What is the basis for Lee Hsien Yang’s asylum claim?
A: Hsien Yang claims he faces a well-founded risk of persecution and cannot safely return to Singapore, citing government persecution against him and his family.
Q: What is the Singapore government’s response to Lee Hsien Yang’s persecution claim?
A: The Singapore government has denied any involvement in persecution, calling it "baseless and unfounded".
Q: What are the implications of Lee Hsien Yang’s asylum claim on the Lee family’s relationship?
A: The asylum claim may further strain the already-tense relationship between the siblings, with potential long-term consequences for the family’s dynamics.