It’s heartening to see that, despite the relentless attacks on Lee Hsien Yang’s integrity and credibility by sycophants of the PAP, and the propaganda press, so many Singaporeans still have their eyes wide open, recognizing that this saga isn’t about Lee Hsien Yang but is, at its core, all about Lee Kuan Yew.
The line, “IF our children are unable to demolish… as a result of any changes in the law,” says it all. The government has the power to amend laws, making it the principal agent capable of blocking Lee Kuan Yew’s wishes for demolition through legal maneuvers like gazetting. Is there a clearer example of using this clause as a shield against criticism?
With over S$330 million already set aside for a Founders’ Memorial, one has to wonder: is the preservation of 38 Oxley Road truly about heritage? Or is it a calculated strategy meant to cement the PAP’s influence by linking itself symbolically to Lee Kuan Yew’s legacy? Is this truly a historical tribute, or nothing more than a personal, vindictive power play?
Lee Hsien Loong himself in Parliament on 13 April 2015 acknowledged that Lee Kuan Yew's wish to demolish 38 Oxley Road had been unwavering. Is he now suggesting that Lee Kuan Yew wavered?
Lee Hsien Loong in Parliament, 13 April 2015: "Two years later (in December 2013) Mr Lee made his Will. He appointed my brother Mr Lee Hsien Yang and sister Dr Lee Wei Ling as his executors and trustees. Mr Lee wrote (in paragraph 7 of his Will), and I quote:
"I further declare that it is my wish, and the wish of my late wife, KWA GEOK CHOO, that our house at 38 Oxley Road, Singapore 238629 ("the House") be demolished immediately after my death or, if my daughter, Wei Ling, would prefer to continue living in the original house, immediately after she moves out of the House. I would ask each of my children to ensure our wishes with respect to the demolition of the House be carried out. If our children are unable to demolish the House as a result of any changes in the law, rules or regulations binding them, it is my wish that the House never be opened to others except my children, their families and descendants. My view on this has been made public before and remains unchanged. My statement of wishes in this paragraph 7 may be publicly disclosed notwithstanding that the rest of my Will is private."
Mr Lee's position on 38 Oxley Road was unwavering over the years, and fully consistent with his lifelong values. We should respect his wishes, as well as those of Mrs Lee.
Dr Lee Wei Ling has informed me that she intends to continue living in the house at 38 Oxley Road. Therefore there is no immediate issue of demolition of the house, and no need for the Government to make any decision now.
If and when Dr Lee Wei Ling no longer lives in the house, Mr Lee has stated his wishes as to what then should be done. At that point, speaking as a son, I would like to see these wishes carried out. However, it will be up to the Government of the day to consider the matter."
From the online backlash I have witnessed, for Singaporeans, the real issue here is not just a house, but whether the government will honour the clear, publicly stated wishes of a founding father whose principles have been foundational to the nation's identity. It challenges the People's Action Party’s portrayal of itself as a principled guardian of Lee Kuan Yew’s legacy, calling into question whether this legacy is respected only when it aligns with current political interests.
Will the government honour the legacy by respecting Lee Kuan Yew’s wishes, or will it prioritize symbolism that serves its own agenda? Time will tell!
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