6 charged over prohibited processions, public assemblies

Six individuals were charged on Sep 9 under the Public Order Act for participating in processions or public assemblies, or organizing them. The gatherings included a pro-Palestinian event along the Istana and a kite-flying assembly at Marina Barrage, in relation to the Gaza conflict. The accused are: Kyal Sin Linn Naing, Elijah Tay, Amirah Mokhlis, Dayana Noor Mohamed, Nur Sabrina Kamel, and Nurul Afiqah Kamel.

Kyal, a Myanmar citizen and Singapore permanent resident, is accused of gathering near Novena MRT Station on Jun 7, 2024, and marching to the Ministry of Home Affairs to deliver letters opposing the Maintenance of Racial Harmony Bill. Tay faces the most charges, totaling nine. The charges include attending candlelight vigils for executed inmates near Changi Prison, refusing to answer questions at police stations, and leading a chant at a Ubi venue advocating for the elimination of Israel.

Tay is also accused of organizing a memorial demonstration opposing ties between Singaporean educational institutions and Israel.

Amirah, a Singaporean, is charged with organizing a public assembly at Marina Barrage to support Palestinian children who died in Gaza. Dayana received two charges for participating in the Istana procession and organizing a public assembly at Marina Barrage. Nur Sabrina is accused of organizing the same event and making an obscene gesture at a public servant. Nurul Afiqah is charged with participating in the Istana procession and organizing the Marina Barrage assembly.

All six are represented by lawyers who requested adjournments and exemptions from future hearings. If convicted, the penalties include fines up to S$10,000 and imprisonment for up to six months for organizing a prohibited procession, or up to S$5,000 and three years for taking part in one. The offense of abusive behavior towards a public servant is punishable by a fine of up to S$5,000.