New Amendment Bill Aims to Enable the President and Ministers to Take on Foreign Roles in Their Private Capacity
Singapore has proposed a new law to establish a framework governing how the president and ministers can accept appointments in foreign and international organizations in their private capacity, when it serves the national interest. The proposed Amendment Bill, introduced in Parliament on November 6, seeks to allow the president and other key officials to take on such roles when advised by the Cabinet that doing so is beneficial for Singapore’s international standing and overall national interests.
Currently, the Constitution does not provide a clear mechanism for the president to assume public roles in foreign organizations while acting in a private capacity. The bill aims to address this gap, providing legal provisions for the president to accept such appointments if the Cabinet deems it advantageous for the nation.
The Prime Minister’s Office emphasized that foreign and international appointments for the president or ministers could enhance Singapore’s global presence and contribute positively to its diplomatic relations. These positions are generally offered to individuals in their personal capacity rather than as representatives of the government, and the new law would make it possible for officials to engage in such roles while maintaining their official duties.
The bill, once passed, would allow for more flexibility in how Singapore’s leadership can interact with global institutions, potentially strengthening the country’s influence and contributing to its long-term strategic goals. The proposed amendments are expected to be debated in the upcoming session of Parliament.
