Singapore’s Law Minister Edwin Tong has defended the appointment process for the Attorney-General (AG), countering claims by Aljunied GRC MP Sylvia Lim that the system is “thin” and lacks robust safeguards. Speaking on March 2, Tong emphasised that the selection process balances executive responsibility with institutional oversight.
Constitutional Process for AG Appointment
Under Singapore’s Constitution, the Prime Minister must first consult the Chief Justice and the Chairman of the Public Service Commission (PSC) before submitting advice for the President’s consideration. Tong described this as a critical step in ensuring that appointments are informed by independent legal and public service perspectives.
“This is not a perfunctory process,” Tong said, stressing that the consultation with judicial and public service leaders provides an additional layer of oversight before the President formally appoints the Attorney-General.
Responding to Criticism
MP Sylvia Lim had previously described the appointment process as “thin,” implying that it concentrated too much power in the executive branch without adequate institutional checks. Tong rejected this characterisation, stating that the multi-step process is designed to maintain both executive accountability and institutional integrity.
He highlighted that the AG’s role, which encompasses advising the government on legal matters and overseeing public prosecutions, requires careful consideration of legal qualifications and professional experience, underscoring why the consultation framework is essential.
Importance of Institutional Safeguards
Tong noted that the inclusion of the Chief Justice and PSC Chairman in consultations ensures that the AG is selected with reference to both the judiciary and the wider civil service. This mechanism aims to maintain public confidence in the independence and professionalism of Singapore’s top legal office.
The Law Minister stressed that the process is consistent with the principles of good governance, transparency, and institutional checks and balances. While the executive recommends the candidate, the consultations provide critical input from senior, impartial figures in Singapore’s legal and public service institutions.
- Law Minister Edwin Tong rejects claims that the AG appointment process is “thin.”
- The Prime Minister must consult both the Chief Justice and the PSC Chairman before advising the President on the appointment.
- The process is designed to balance executive responsibility with institutional safeguards.
- Consultation with judicial and civil service leaders ensures the Attorney-General’s independence and professionalism.
