Singapore's government may well be regretting the use of a sledgehammer to crack a small nut, in this case prosecuting the British author of a hitherto obscure, Malaysia-published book critical of the injustices present in the Lion City's eager use of capital punishment. The case has brought international attention to Singapore's relatively easy and allegedly discriminatory use of the hangman's noose in a way that casts doubt on its preferred image as a state that is strict but fair.
The Court of Appeal has reserved judgment on the appeal by author Alan Shadrake against a six-week prison term and a S$20,000 fine for contempt of court relating to passages in his book: "Once a Jolly Hangman: Singapore Justice in the dock." It was argued that Shadrake had deliberately impugned the impartiality and integrity of the Singapore judiciary with his book. More...
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