Former Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew showed up at Parliament on Monday, despite his doctor’s advice, on his 90^th birthday. His appearance drew a standing ovation from his fellow Members of Parliament. But why did he make the special effort? Parliament holds a special place in Mr Lee’s heart, said SMU Associate Professor of Law and NMP Eugene Tan. “He has been a legislator since 1955. Getting a strong mandate from the people was central to his political longevity. Parliament was where he was involved in the cut and thrust of debate and where he sought to explain policies and engage with his critics. I think he was also trying to show the MPs that Parliament has a special and important role in how Singapore is governed,” explained Associate Prof Tan.