MND’s review of the town councils has highlighted the risk of them being used for political purposes, which could be against the interests of residents. Hence, MND had recommended a comprehensive review of the current framework of town councils. Commenting on this issue, SMU Assistant Professor of Law Eugene Tan said that the fundamental principle of a transparent town council framework is to look after the welfare of residents. He added that the town council’s handover should be a smoother process and should adhere to a clear set of guidelines. Addressing the issue of the town councils being “politicised”, Assistant Prof Tan said that it was difficult to completely “de-politicise” town councils, or the residents would only be able to observe the performance of their MPs during the Parliamentary debates and Meet-the-People sessions. A more moderate solution would be to continue allowing the town councils to play dual roles but reduce the significance of their political role vis-à-vis their management role.