SINGAPORE: Andre Low, the opposition WP’s Jalan Kayu candidate, has apologised for his use of vulgarities and “completely inappropriate” remarks in a series of text messages that were leaked on social media.
In a Facebook post in the early hours of April 30, Low said the leaked Telegram messages were from a private chat among his business school classmates.
Many date to the Covid-19 period when “we ranted to each other while cooped up at home”, said Low, 33.
Noting that he has always been opinionated and holds strong convictions about Singapore and how it “can do so much better”, he said: “These same convictions are also what pushed me to step up to contest as a Workers’ Party candidate.”
More than 30 screenshots of text messages purportedly from Low were posted on Reddit.
One of them about noise from fighter jets flying over Sengkang read: “I can’t believe some champion military a**hole thought that noise pollution for four months is a brilliant way to celebrate NDP.”
NDP refers to the National Day Parade.
Several messages appeared to be about his work at a Meet-The-People Session.
The messages recounted how he could not get through to a resident unless he turned off his caller ID blocking service.
“They proceeded to call me every day on my personal number. IMO, these people can f*** off,” a message read.
Low said he is not proud of the way he expressed his views and is “deeply sorry” for the language he used, adding that this was done in a different stage of his life.
“But regardless of the setting, there is no excuse for using such language or making disparaging comments about anyone – especially those who have placed their trust in me,” he added.
He continued: “I am now married, and soon to be a father. I have spent five years working with the Workers’ Party – first serving the residents of Rivervale and later helping to spread the word about the good work of the party.
“These experiences have opened my eyes to the lived realities of Singaporeans and Singapore firms, and I have matured over the process.”
He added that since he had spoken about transparency, accountability and the power of apologies at a WP rally on April 29, he needed to hold himself to the same standard.
Low will go up against labour chief Ng Chee Meng from the PAP at the May 3 General Election.
He also apologised to Jalan Kayu voters, and said he takes full responsibility for his past actions.
“I understand that as a public figure, my words carry weight and can cause real harm,” he wrote.
“This has been a humbling experience, but I hope that I can earn your trust, and to demonstrate my sincerity in wanting to serve you.” - The Straits Times/ANN
