The High Court of Singapore has approved former Transport Minister S. Iswaran’s application to consolidate all 35 criminal charges against him into a single trial. This decision contrasts with the prosecution’s request for separate but consecutive trials for charges related to two businessmen, Ong Beng Seng and David Lum.

During the hearing on May 8, Justice Vincent Hoong listened to arguments for over four hours before rendering his judgment. Iswaran faces multiple charges, including two counts of corruption for allegedly receiving more than S$403,000 in gifts as a public servant.

The charges stem from Iswaran’s dealings with Ong, a billionaire hotel and property tycoon, and David Lum, managing director of Lum Chang Holdings. The former minister was initially charged with 27 counts related to Ong in January, followed by an additional eight charges concerning Lum in March.

The prosecution, represented by Deputy Attorney-General Tai Wei Shyong, had advocated for the charges involving Lum to be tried first, citing the need for separate trials due to the distinct nature of the allegations. They argued that this approach would allow them to build their case effectively.

In response, Iswaran’s lawyer, Senior Counsel Davinder Singh, contended that splitting the trials would prejudice the defense and potentially reveal the defense strategy to the prosecution. He emphasized that the nature of the gifts received by Iswaran was pertinent to both sets of charges, and combining them would ensure a fairer trial.

Justice Hoong ruled in favor of Iswaran, stating that there was a “strong reason” to hear all charges together. He noted that while the prosecution could consider the specific time and circumstances of the allegations, the broader characteristics of the charges warranted their consolidation.

Iswaran faces serious penalties if convicted. Under Singapore’s Prevention of Corruption Act, he could face fines up to S$100,000 and imprisonment for up to seven years for corruption offenses. For the other charges, he risks additional fines and imprisonment.

Currently out on S$800,000 bail, Iswaran has committed to defending himself against all allegations. This case marks a significant moment in Singapore’s ongoing efforts to combat corruption and uphold public integrity.