Suppressing dissent in Singapore: Remembering President Ong Teng Cheong

The late President Ong Teng Cheong (term of office: 2 September 1993 – 1 September 1999) deserves our respect for willing to stand up to his former colleagues in the cabinet in his effort to consolidate and realize the constitutional roles of the presidency. One senses the hypocrisy and arrogance of the cabinet and the ruling party in obstructing him.

The constitution was amended during and after Ong's term as president to weaken the power of the elected presidency. (Wikipedia)

Among the five former presidents who have died, Ong is the only president who did not receive a state funeral. He received a state-assisted funeral instead.

                                                                        --- the Temasek Review (source)

* Ong's interview with Asiaweek, March 2000: here