That’s a lot of umbrellas..
Three Singaporean women have decided to contest their charges at trial, following a pro-Palestinian procession to the Istana that took place earlier this year. Siti Amirah Mohamed Asrori, 29, and Mossammad Sobikun Nahar, 25, were charged with organizing the procession on February 2 without a permit, while Annamalai Kokila Parvathi, 36, was accused of abetting the conspiracy. The women, along with others, were seen carrying umbrellas painted with watermelon images, a symbol of solidarity with the Palestinian cause amid the Israel-Hamas conflict.
According to the police, approximately 70 individuals gathered outside a mall on February 2 and proceeded towards the Istana. The trio appeared in court on Wednesday, where their lawyer stated, “The accused persons are all disputing the charges. Essentially, they are all claiming trial.” The cases have been adjourned to October for pre-trial conferences.
If found guilty of organizing a prohibited procession or abetting such an act, each woman could face imprisonment for up to six months, a fine of up to S$10,000, or both. The police have emphasized the importance of upholding peace, public order, and social harmony, urging individuals not to engage in activities that may disrupt these values. In a statement released in June, the police highlighted alternative avenues for expressing one’s views on sensitive issues.
“We understand that some people may feel strongly about the Israel-Hamas conflict, but they should not break the law to express their views, nor emulate the protestors in other countries,” the police mentioned.
