What defence does Singapore offer for its drug laws?

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Singapore Defends Strict Drug Laws and Death Penalty as Deterrent

Singapore authorities have defended their stringent drug laws and the use of the death penalty, asserting that capital punishment serves as a crucial deterrent against drug trafficking. This stance was reiterated following international condemnation of the execution of Malaysian national Nagaenthran Dharmalingam, who was convicted of smuggling 42 grammes of heroin into the city-state. The government maintains that the death penalty is supported by the majority of its citizens and is effective in combating drug-related crimes.
Legal Framework and Deterrent Effect

Singapore possesses some of the world's most severe narcotics legislation. The Central Narcotics Bureau stated that Nagaenthran Dharmalingam's actions, which led to his conviction, were a "deliberate, purposeful and calculated decision," implying he was fully aware of his conduct. This assertion underscores the government's position that individuals are held accountable for their choices, even in cases involving alleged intellectual disabilities.
Fair Trial and Exhausted Appeals

The Attorney General's Chambers affirmed that Nagaenthran Dharmalingam received a fair trial. Furthermore, it was stated that he had exhausted all available avenues for appeal and recourse under the law over an approximately 11-year period. This highlights the extensive legal processes undertaken before the execution was carried out.
International Scrutiny and Domestic Support

The case garnered significant international attention, with United Nations experts, human rights activists, the European Union, and Amnesty International urging Singapore to commute the sentence or halt executions. Despite this external pressure, the Singaporean government maintains that the death penalty is a necessary measure to deter drug trafficking and that capital punishment enjoys broad public support within the nation.

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What defence does Singapore offer for its drug laws?

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