Parliament Passes Constitutional Amendments to Enhance Global Diplomacy
Singapore’s Parliament has passed constitutional amendments enabling the president to accept international appointments in a “private capacity,” allowing him to act independently and contribute to global discussions. This move supports President Tharman Shanmugaratnam in fulfilling his diplomatic role while maintaining the country’s interests. The new law, approved on Nov 22, 2023, aims to provide flexibility for the president to engage with international organizations without being constrained by Singapore’s official positions. The Cabinet will review each appointment, ensuring it aligns with national interests and does not interfere with the president’s domestic duties. Critics have raised concerns about potential conflicts of interest, but safeguards have been put in place, including the requirement for full transparency in appointment decisions.
