u/Yeenspired

This fan maybe older than SG

Eulogy for Kenneth Jeyaratnam

We remember Kenneth Jeyaratnam today as a political gentleman who stood aside when it mattered.

As Secretary-General of the Reform Party, Kenneth was outspoken. He believed opposition meant asking hard questions, even when it was uncomfortable.

As an experienced politician, Kenneth intuitively understood the aspirations of the residents of West Coast GRC. It would not have served the interest of the residents if the newly formed PSP and the Reform Party had embroiled in a three-corner fight in GE2020.

Despite having walked the ground and campaigned in West Coast GRC in GE2015, Kenneth, as the leader of Reform Party agreed to step aside. It was a pragmatic move, and a notable one.

In a contest where every party fights for ground, Kenneth made way when it mattered most. He had the stature to step aside for the PSP to contest in West Coast GRC, which later awarded us 2 NCMP seats in Parliament.

Like a gentlemen, Kenneth moved in quiet ways but his political chivalry is never forgotten.

Kenneth believed democracy is healthier when there are different voices willing to test and probe power. He did that in his own way — directly, persistently, and without apology.

The PSP has today lost a trusted comrade and endeared friend.

To his wife Amanda and son Jared, and to members of the Reform Party, we extend our deepest condolences to you.

To rephrase an anonymous quote, "The true measure of a hero, is not the might of his weapon, but the nobility of his heart".