J. B. Jeyaretnam
Singaporean lawyer and politician
Born
1926
99 years ago
Died
September 30th, 2008
16 years ago — 82 years old
Category
Leaders & Politicians
Country
Singapore
Links & References
A prominent lawyer and politician in Singapore, J. B. Jeyaretnam founded the Workers' Party in 1957 and led it as the first opposition party to win a seat in Singapore's Parliament after independence, achieving this in 1981. He served as a Member of Parliament and was well-regarded for his commitment to civil liberties and social justice. Jeyaretnam faced numerous legal challenges throughout his political career, which were seen as politically motivated. He was disbarred in 2001, affecting his political activities. His efforts in the political arena significantly influenced opposition politics in Singapore, and he became a symbol of political dissent.
Founded the Workers' Party in 1957
First opposition member elected to Singapore's Parliament in 1981
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