In a significant development for activists in Singapore, a court has cleared three women accused of organizing an illegal procession to show support for Palestine. The women, who had faced charges for leading a walk to the presidential office, were acquitted after a judge ruled that their actions did not fully meet the criteria for the charge.
One of the acquitted activists expressed that the unexpected ruling brings a “new sense of energy and hope” to those advocating for causes in Singapore. Demonstrations are rare in the nation due to stringent regulations requiring police permits for any public gathering concerning a particular cause. Authorities have also made it clear that any applications for events related to the Israel-Gaza war would be denied, citing the potential for public disorder due to the topic’s sensitivity.
The Singaporean government maintains that these regulations are crucial for preserving peace and harmony. However, critics argue that these measures unduly restrict freedom of speech and activism.
The case involved Mossammad Sobikun Nahar, Siti Amirah Mohamed Asrori, and Kokila Annamalai, who organized the walk in February 2024. Around 70 people participated, carrying symbols associated with the Palestinian cause, such as umbrellas designed to resemble watermelons.
Prosecutors had charged the women with organizing an unauthorized procession in a restricted area. The defense contended that the women were unaware they were traversing a prohibited zone, as they followed public roads. The judge acknowledged that while the women did organize a procession, they likely had no reason to believe their route was illegal, noting the absence of signage indicating a restricted area.
The judge stated that the evidence suggested the women made a genuine effort to comply with the law. Had they been convicted, they could have faced fines or imprisonment.
The trial attracted considerable attention, with images of the women, clad in Palestinian colors, circulating widely online. The activists intentionally chose their attire to convey defiance and solidarity.
This acquittal offers a moment of relief for the country’s civil society, with one activist emphasizing the need for such positive outcomes to sustain the movement.
The prosecution has announced its intention to appeal the verdict.
This case comes amidst ongoing police investigations into other events, both online and offline, connected to the Israel-Gaza war, including a memorial for Palestinian students that led to police questioning of six individuals.
Singapore’s government has consistently advocated for a two-state solution and supports Palestine’s United Nations membership, provided a Palestinian state has an effective government that acknowledges Israel’s right to exist and renounces terrorism.