I had sent this letter to the Straits Time Forum, dated 25th October 2007.
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I applaud the Government and especially PM Lee, for its open-ness in engaging the public in the ongoing repeal 377a debate. It shows how far our civic society has progressed, and makes me proud of our Nation's strong democratic process.
However, regardless of the arguements either for or against repealing 377a, the ambiguity that is left outstanding, is necessarily dangerous and needs resolution.
Singapore's reputation has been built upon a legal system that is absolute, firm, and most importantly, clear. This is a strength of Singapore, and has contributed much to our success. In issues like Michael Fay and even chewing gum, we have built an international reputation for a transparent and strong legal system, a system where ambiguity has no place. For these same reasons, the Singaporean citizen is guaranteed safety within the legal system.
The introduction of ambiguity into the system may forseeably result in citizens misinterpreting the law. But more frightening, is the thought that a citizen may no longer feel safe within the thickets of the law, for he can no longer be sure which law will be enforced, and which will not be.
Borrowing a phrase from Robert Bolt's famous play "A Man for All Seasons", let us keep the law as a causeway upon which, so long as he keeps to it, a citizen may walk safely.
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