Singapore's modern founding father Lee Kuan Yew has died

 

 

Singapore's first Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew. Photo / AP

Lee Kuan Yew, the founder of modern Singapore who helped transform the sleepy port into one of the world's richest nations, has died. He was 91.
Mr Lee was admitted to Singapore General Hospital on February 5 for severe pneumonia and was later put on life support.
Singapore's Prime Minister's Office said in a statement on its website that Lee "passed away peacefully".
New Zealand Prime Minister John Key today expressed his sincere condolences.
"Mr Lee made an extraordinary contribution to Singapore, both as it found its way to independence in 1965 and in the 50 years since then," he said.
"A man of rare qualities, Mr Lee's courage, determination, commitment, character and ability made him a formidable leader who held the respect of Singaporeans and the international community alike."

A get well card is left at the hospital where Lee Kuan Yew has been treated for the last 6 weeks. Photo / AP

Mr Lee was feared for his authoritarian tactics but insisted that strict limits on speech and public protest were necessary to maintain stability in the multiethnic and multi-religious country.
He guided Singapore for 31 years until 1990, making it into a global trade and finance center.

A message of support for Singapore's founding prime minister Lee Kuan Yew is left at Singapore General Hospital. Photo / AP

Mr Lee's legacy includes an efficient government with little corruption, low tax rates to attract foreign investment, excellent schools and safe streets.
He has faced criticism, though, for using tough tactics to consolidate power.
Mr Lee jailed some political rivals without trial for decades and brought defamation lawsuits against journalists and opposition politicians.
Mr Lee commanded immense respect among Singaporeans, who this year will celebrate the country's 50th independence anniversary.
Singapore's Prime Minister's Office said arrangements for the public to pay respects and funeral arrangements will be announced later.