The reactions towards the City Harvest trial verdict

News of the City Harvest court verdict spread like wildfire on social media, with commenters posting polarised opinions on the outcome of the 140-days-long court case.

A prime example of this were the reactions to Sun Ho's letter to the City Harvest congregation about the verdict on Wednesday (21 Oct). While many commenters voiced their support for the singer and the six accused, among whom was her husband Kong Hee, other users left biting comments like "Crocodile tears. All because of you and your so called singing career".

Yahoo Singapore reached out to members of the congregation after the verdict was delivered to get their opinions.

"I'm rather upset by the news," said Yuri Yamaguchi, 19, student. "The church helped me a lot with self discovery. I find it hard to believe that the pastor (Kong Hee) I often see on stage may no longer give his sermons again."

Enrique Yang, 31, photographer, said, "In Singapore, even if you have good heart, if you don't protect yourself and double check laws, you run the risk of getting into trouble. To me, I feel sad that the ruling is this way."

One ex-member, who prefers to remain anonymous, felt indignant about the conduct of the convicted church leaders. "It's nice to see justice. I had no idea how my donations or my brother's donations were being used. I would never have donated if I had known," she said.

Beyond the reactions of the City Harvest congregation, many netizens’ views about the six accused were negative, with many expressing satisfaction with the verdict.

Related stories:

City Harvest trial: All 6 found guilty

Church disappointed by verdict: Sun Ho

Key figures in the case

Before City Harvest: Other religious figures who got in trouble