In an unexpected development, Lee Hsien Yang, son of Singapore's revered founder Lee Kuan Yew, has obtained asylum in the United Kingdom, citing fears of persecution linked to an ongoing and contentious family dispute. Lee's claims are rooted in his assertion of political oppression under the government led by his brother, Lee Hsien Loong, who served as Prime Minister for two decades.
Lee Hsien Yang revealed to the BBC that he has been awarded refugee status valid for five years, substantiated by a letter from the UK government confirming his well-founded fears of persecution should he return to Singapore. Alongside him, his wife has also received asylum approval. A representative from the Home Office declined to comment on particular cases, adhering to the public policy on refugee matters, but the BBC has independently verified Lee's asylum status.
This move comes in the wake of a protracted feud between the brothers that erupted following Lee Kuan Yew's death in 2015, centering on their father's estate, particularly the family home at 38 Oxley Road. This site has been a focal point of dispute, with Lee Hsien Yang and his sister, the late Lee Wei Ling, alleging their brother has exploited their father's legacy to establish a political dynasty.
The Singaporean government has repeatedly denied the allegations, asserting that both Lee Hsien Yang and family are free to return home without restraint. A statement from the government dismissed claims of persecution as unfounded.
In the aftermath of family rifts, Lee Hsien Yang has shifted his political stance by joining an opposition party and becoming an outspoken critic of the current administration, a path he intends to continue while residing in London. Following the death of their sister, Lee Hsien Yang has pushed for the demolition of their childhood home in compliance with their father's wishes to allow for a new family dwelling to be built. This enduring family drama continues to evoke intense public discourse regarding the legacy of Singapore's founding leader.
Lee Hsien Yang revealed to the BBC that he has been awarded refugee status valid for five years, substantiated by a letter from the UK government confirming his well-founded fears of persecution should he return to Singapore. Alongside him, his wife has also received asylum approval. A representative from the Home Office declined to comment on particular cases, adhering to the public policy on refugee matters, but the BBC has independently verified Lee's asylum status.
This move comes in the wake of a protracted feud between the brothers that erupted following Lee Kuan Yew's death in 2015, centering on their father's estate, particularly the family home at 38 Oxley Road. This site has been a focal point of dispute, with Lee Hsien Yang and his sister, the late Lee Wei Ling, alleging their brother has exploited their father's legacy to establish a political dynasty.
The Singaporean government has repeatedly denied the allegations, asserting that both Lee Hsien Yang and family are free to return home without restraint. A statement from the government dismissed claims of persecution as unfounded.
In the aftermath of family rifts, Lee Hsien Yang has shifted his political stance by joining an opposition party and becoming an outspoken critic of the current administration, a path he intends to continue while residing in London. Following the death of their sister, Lee Hsien Yang has pushed for the demolition of their childhood home in compliance with their father's wishes to allow for a new family dwelling to be built. This enduring family drama continues to evoke intense public discourse regarding the legacy of Singapore's founding leader.
