Singapore activists charged over rally for Gaza

Three activists in Singapore have been accused of mustering people to deliver letters to the prime minister, insisting he end relations with Israel.

Rally and Charges

Three activists in Singapore, Annamalai Kokila Parvathi, Siti Amirah Mohamed Asrori, and Mossammad Sobikun Nahar, have been charged for organizing a rally urging the prime minister to sever ties with Israel.

Singapore has strict regulations on protests, and public demonstrations advocating for foreign causes are not permitted.

Sensitive Issue

The conflict in Gaza is particularly sensitive in Singapore, which has a significant Muslim population and maintains close relations with Israel. Authorities have advised Singaporeans against protests on this issue, encouraging dialogues and donation drives instead.

Public Sentiment and Rally

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Despite the restrictions, there is deep concern about the Gaza conflict, especially among younger Singaporeans who express their views online and wish to be heard. In February, the activists led about 70 people in a march from a popular mall on Orchard Road to the presidential compound nearby.

Photos on social media showed participants with umbrellas resembling watermelons, a symbol of solidarity with Palestine, as they delivered 140 letters to the compound staff.

Legal Consequences

The authorities stated that the activists had organized the event without a permit, a requirement for all public demonstrations in Singapore.

The police have explicitly said they would not grant permits for assemblies advocating foreign causes. The three women face potential fines of up to S$10,000 (£5,800, $7,300) or imprisonment for up to six months.

Defiant Stand

On Thursday, after being released on bail, the women appeared defiant. Ms. Amirah wore a shawl resembling the keffiyeh, a symbol of Palestinian activism, while Ms. Annamalai wore a T-shirt with “Justice Now!” printed on it. The activists have yet to indicate whether they will plead guilty.