Bill proposed to allow president and cabinet ministers, in their private capacities, to accept international roles

SINGAPORE: The Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) has proposed a constitutional amendment to allow the president and cabinet ministers to hold positions, in their private capacities, in international institutions and organizations if these positions are in Singapore’s interest.

The PMO tabled the first reading of the constitutional amendment bill in Parliament on Monday (6 Nov). Currently, the Singapore constitution does not allow the president, the head of state, to privately assume public office.

According to Article 3 of the proposed amendment bill, the president can only assume relevant positions if the cabinet believes that taking over the relevant positions will be in the national interest.

The Cabinet may also advise the President in a timely manner to avoid making certain remarks or engaging in certain matters while serving in these positions or to give up any relevant positions.

While the law presently does not prohibit Cabinet ministers from holding positions in international institutions and organizations, except for positions involving a commercial nature, the bill also sets out a similar framework for cabinet ministers to ensure more comprehensive coverage.

Under the bill, ministers must consult with the Prime Minister before taking up such positions. The head of government must assess whether the position is in the nation’s interest before approving or rejecting the request.