In a surprising turn of events, authorities in Singapore have decided not to file charges regarding a controversial walkabout incident that occurred between volunteers of the People’s Action Party (PAP) and the Progress Singapore Party (PSP) in Bukit Gombak.

On August 29, 2023, the PSP announced that four of its members who were involved in the January 4 altercation received calls from the police confirming that no charges would be pressed. The police also communicated that they would not provide a public statement explaining the rationale behind this decision.

The incident has reportedly been under investigation for eight months, coinciding with the lead-up to the 2025 General Election. The PSP expressed its disappointment over the lack of transparency, noting that both the police and the Attorney-General's Chambers (AGC) failed to produce a comprehensive report on the matter.

While the PSP accepted the conclusions from the investigation, they highlighted that unanswered questions remain regarding potential physical violence from their volunteers and allegations of harassment by PAP members. This ambiguity leaves a cloud of suspicion over those involved and raises concerns about damaging their reputations.

"It would be disappointing if this incident discourages Singaporeans from volunteering for the opposition," a PSP statement read, stressing the importance of clear communication in maintaining trust.

The incident began when volunteers from both parties conducted walkabouts to engage residents, only to clash during their outreach efforts. Eyewitness accounts and videos shared on social media captured the chaotic encounter, leading a PSP volunteer to file a police report.

PSP candidate S. Nallakaruppan alleged that PAP volunteers were following his team during their visit to Goodview Gardens, which was previously part of Chua Chu Kang GRC represented by PAP MP Low Yen Ling.

In contrast, Ms. Low characterized the PSP’s actions as aggressive, claiming that one PSP member slapped a PAP volunteer and made taunting remarks.

She asserted that the PSP distorted the events of the day and expressed hope for a thorough police investigation that would clarify the facts for the public.

The incident has garnered attention from various political figures, including former PSP chairman Tan Cheng Bock and government officials like Home Affairs Minister K. Shanmugam and Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong.

Amid this controversy, the PSP had previously urged for the investigation's findings to be shared publicly prior to the elections, insisting that it was crucial for voters to understand the situation and make informed decisions.