Singapore- A former taxi driver who took back his apology for punching a lawmaker emerged from a Singapore court after again expressing sorrow and promising no further retraction, news reports said Friday. Koo Tong Huat shook hands with Seng Han Thong, a member of parliament, after the district court hearing, repeatedly saying, "Thank you for forgiving me," The Straits Times said.

The 74-year-old Koo admitted that he had assaulted Seng "without any provocation" on July 20.

He had gone to see Seng about his revoked taxi licence, lost his temper and punched the MP, the court heard. Koo said he was sorry, but retracted the apology the next day.

"I am sincerely sorry for having assaulted Mr Seng," Koo told the court Thursday. "I will not subsequently disclaim or retract my apology."

He could have been jailed for up to one year if convicted of hurting Seng.
http://rawstory.com/news/2006/Former_cabby_who_punched_MP_free_af_10262006.html