Full Breakdown
Singapore Court Acquits Women Over Pro-Palestinian Procession
10/23/2025, 2:12:55 AM
Acquittal of Activists
On October 21, 2025, a district court in Singapore acquitted three women—Mossammad Sobikun Nahar, 26, Siti Amirah Mohamed Asrori, 30, and Annamalai Kokila Parvathi, 37—who were charged with organizing an illegal procession in support of Palestine. The court ruled that the women did not know the route they took was prohibited under the Public Order Act. District Judge John Ng stated that while the prosecution proved the women organized the event, it failed to demonstrate that they had the requisite knowledge of the route's restrictions.
Background of the Event
The case stemmed from a gathering on February 2, 2024, when approximately 70 participants walked from Plaza Singapura mall to the rear gate of the Istana, Singapore's presidential office. The event was part of the "Letters for Palestine" initiative, where participants aimed to deliver letters advocating for Palestinian rights to then-Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong. The procession featured symbolic elements, including umbrellas painted to resemble watermelons, a recognized symbol of Palestinian identity.
Court Proceedings and Ruling
During the trial, which began on September 18, 2024, the defense argued that there were no visible signs indicating the route was restricted. Judge Ng noted that the area outside the Istana was a public path and had previously been used for similar peaceful events without incident. He emphasized that the women acted with an "honest and reasonable belief" that they were complying with the law. The judge concluded that the prosecution did not prove the necessary intent or awareness of wrongdoing, leading to the acquittal.
Public Reaction and Implications
The verdict was met with applause and cheers from supporters in the courtroom, reflecting a significant moment for civil liberties in Singapore, where public demonstrations are tightly regulated. Annamalai described the ruling as a "partial victory," emphasizing the ongoing struggle for civil liberties and advocacy for Palestinian rights. The Singapore Democratic Party (SDP) welcomed the decision, calling it a modest step forward for free speech and peaceful activism.
Official Responses and Future Developments
In response to the acquittal, the Attorney General's Chambers announced plans to appeal the court's decision. The prosecution had previously argued that the women violated the Public Order Act by organizing a procession without the necessary permit in a restricted area. If convicted, they could have faced fines of up to S$10,000 (approximately US$7,705) or imprisonment for up to six months.
Conclusion
The acquittal of Mossammad Sobikun Nahar, Siti Amirah Mohamed Asrori, and Annamalai Kokila Parvathi marks a notable event in Singapore's legal landscape concerning public demonstrations. As the case draws attention to the balance between maintaining public order and allowing freedom of expression, it remains to be seen how the appeal will unfold and what implications it may have for future activism in the city-state.
