Singapore’s founding leader Lee Kuan Yew’s son, Lee Hsien Yang, has been allowed to apply for asylum in the UK on fears of persecution. He claims these fears are linked to a family feud that has been building up for quite some time with his brother, Lee Hsien Loong, Singapore’s Prime Minister.

Claims of persecution by Lee Hsien Yang also happen after increased tension between the brothers. Such disputes have recently gained much public and media attention.

Lee Hsien Yang has been complaining of oppression from the Singaporean government, which his brother has ruled for two decades. According to Lee Hsien Yang, such oppression can be accounted for by the long-standing dispute between brothers over their father’s legacy and estate. The Singaporean government always denies such an allegation, saying that Lee Hsien Yang can return to Singapore without threat.’

The UK government awarded Lee Hsien Yang “refugee status” for five years, acknowledging his “well-founded fear of persecution” should he return to Singapore. Lee is relieved at the decision, which he described as a “last resort.” As a Singapore citizen, he hopes to return home safely one day.

The Family Dispute

‘It can trace the beginning of the feud between the siblings back to the death of their father, Lee Kuan Yew, who passed away in 2015. The nub of the issue revolves around the family home at 38 Oxley Road, a humble house with historic significance as it relates to the legacy of Singapore’s first prime minister. Lee Kuan Yew’s will stated that his house should be demolished once he dies or if Lee Wei Ling had already transferred. However, as a son supporting his father’s home, Lee Hsien Loong argued for preserving the house.

Lee Hsien Yang’s sister, Lee Wei Ling, who is now dead, accused their brother of exploiting their father’s legacy to build a political dynasty. They also raised questions about the alleged misuse of state power against them as they claimed the government had subjected them to inquiries and legal actions as part of a campaign of harassment.

Government Reaction

In response to the allegations, the Singaporean government has again said that Lee Hsien Yang and his family are not victims of persecution and are under no legal impediment in Singapore. A government statement stated that they have always been free to return. Lee Hsien Loong’s office declined any further comments on the dispute.

Recent Developments

News of Lee Wei Ling’s death adds a new twist to the family drama: she was vocal in criticizing the government and arguing in favour of demolishing the family home. The very day she died, Lee Hsien Yang filed a request to demolish 38 Oxley Road to erect a “small private dwelling” on the land to have as a desire from their father.

Future Ramifications

As Lee Hsien Yang settles into his new life in the UK, he remains committed to criticising the Singaporean government and advocating for what he sees as justice for his family. This episode marks a significant chapter in a family saga that reflects deeper political tensions within Singapore.

However, the outcome of this high-profile feud is highly uncertain, at least as the brothers try to reconcile their distinct visions for their father’s legacy and the future destiny of their family’s name. Indeed, as Lee Hsien Yang said, he would one day like to return home to Singapore “in a better time, free from fear of persecution.”.

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