I ignore polling as a method of government. I think that shows a certain weakness of mind - an inability to chart a course whichever way the wind blows, whichever way the media encourages the people to go, you follow. If you can't force or are unwilling to force your people to follow you, with or without threats, you are not a leader.
Lee Kuan YewWe have to lock up people, without trial, whether they are communists, whether they are language chauvinists, whether they are religious extremists. If you donโt do that, the country would be in ruins.
Lee Kuan YewIf it is not totalitarian to arrest a man and detain him, when you cannot charge him with any offence against any written law โ if that is not what we have always cried out against in Fascist states โ then what is it?โฆ If we are to survive as a free democracy, then we must be prepared, in principle, to concede to our enemies โ even those who do not subscribe to our views โ as much constitutional rights as you concede yourself.
Lee Kuan YewIf you can't force or are unwilling to force your people to follow you, with or without threats, you are not a leader.
Lee Kuan YewAt the end of the day, what I cherish most are the human relationships. With the unfailing support of my wife and partner I have lived my life to the fullest. It is the friendships I made and the close family ties I nurtured that have provided me with that sense of satisfaction at a life well lived, and have made me what I am.
Lee Kuan Yew