SINGAPORE:

In a stunning turn of events, lawyer Chia Boon Teck has stepped down as vice-president and council member of the Law Society of Singapore following immense backlash over his remarks regarding a rape victim. His resignation, accepted promptly by the Law Society, marks a significant moment in the ongoing discourse surrounding victim rights and accountability.

The controversy erupted after Chia made comments on LinkedIn concerning the case of former Wah!Banana actor Lev Panfilov, who was just convicted of rape, sexual assault by penetration, and molest. In a series of posts, Chia questioned the victim's actions, suggesting that her behavior may have contributed to the incident.

Critics were quick to denounce Chia’s comments as victim-blaming. Law Society President Lisa Sam did not mince words, stating that such views were inappropriate for anyone in a leadership role. 'The victim’s morality should not have been questioned in this manner. Such comments and views are also inimical for a person in a position of leadership to espouse,' she said.

Chia's remarks included a particularly controversial suggestion that individuals engaging in one-night stands should be aware of potential risks. His comments on the victim's age, occupation, and circumstances leading up to the assault drew sharp criticism from advocacy groups and legal professionals alike. Prominent lawyer calls echoed the sentiment that Chia’s comments could perpetuate harmful narratives and discourage victims from coming forward.

Adding to the public outcry, Law and Home Affairs Minister K Shanmugam emphasized the importance of responsible speech from those in influential positions. 'I worry what impact his statement may have on other victims,' he stated, underscoring the potential harm of minimising victims’ experiences. He further asserted, 'Shaming and blaming victims steps over the line. And misogyny should have no place in our society.'

Following the swift backlash, Chia deleted his LinkedIn post and clarified that his intention was never to assign blame but to promote situational awareness. 'My comments were meant to encourage reflection on how individuals can better protect themselves in social situations. This is not about shifting responsibility but about understanding real-world risks,' he explained.

Chia, who has been a part of the Law Society since August 2023 and was previously its treasurer, is also a co-managing director at Chia Wong Chambers. His abrupt resignation highlights the significance of addressing victim advocacy and the responsibility that legal figures hold in shaping public perceptions surrounding such critical issues.

This incident serves as a sobering reminder of the ongoing challenges in the realm of victim rights and the urgent necessity for a cultural shift towards empathy and understanding in sensitive matters of assault and violence. The local legal community and society at large are keenly watching how this discussion unfolds moving forward.