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Fighting for Freedom of Speech



Singapore Advocate Leaves Prison
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By LAURINDA KEYS

 .c The Associated Press

SINGAPORE (AP) -- Completing his seven-day jail sentence for speaking
publicly without a police permit, a Singaporean politician said today
the punishment made him more determined to fight for freedom of speech
in the Asian city- state.

As supporters placed a flower garland around his neck, Chee Soon Juan
said he would choose prison again instead of paying a fine if convicted
of the same charge in a second trial that starts Tuesday.

Chee, 36, was convicted of violating the Public Entertainments Act by
addressing a crowd estimated by journalists at about 250 people in the
central business district on Dec. 29. He made a second speech about a
week later.

The ruling People's Action Party, which has dominated Singapore for 40
years, maintains tight controls on speech, assembly, the press and other
aspects of civic life. It says the restrictions are necessary to avoid
unrest in the
multiracial and multireligious nation of 3.1 million.

Chee, head of the 200-member Singapore Democratic Party, argues the act
is unconstitutional and should not apply to political speech.

He told reporters after his release that prison life was harsh, but,
``If anything, it's made me more resolute and more determined to carry
on fighting and to speak out and speak up for the people of Singapore.''

Chee's party holds none of the three opposition seats in the 84-member
Parliament.