Unity needed to get through challenging times

It is unfortunate that the feud between Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong and his siblings is occurring at a time when we should be focusing on tackling the many challenges our nation faces both internally and externally.

Terrorism is on our doorstep. An uncertain economic outlook and rising unemployment are of concern. Renewal of political leadership to take us through trying times is still a work in progress.

We need unity and strong political leadership to take us through this difficult and dangerous period.

Preserving or demolishing the Oxley Road residence is of little significance to the well-being of Singapore.

However, accusing the Prime Minister and the Government of being morally corrupt undermines the trust and bond between the people and the Government.

It diminishes the Government's prestige and efficacy in protecting and enhancing the livelihood of the people.

I believe neither PM Lee nor his siblings harbour vicious, selfish motives in their family feud.

They just differ on how to respect the will of their father and how to honour his legacy.

While I sympathise with the frustrations of Dr Lee Wei Ling and Mr Lee Hsien Yang, I urge them to settle the family matter amicably and quietly away from the public eye.

Robert Tang Hin Ching

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A version of this article appeared in the print edition of The Straits Times on June 20, 2017, with the headline Unity needed to get through challenging times. Subscribe