In a recent speech, Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong emphasized the critical role of elections in providing Singapore with a competent government capable of leading the country through challenges and crises.
He highlighted the importance of selecting a leadership team with the ability to navigate Singapore’s position in the global arena while effectively managing internal affairs.
SM Lee emphasized the significance of voters’ decisions in shaping the future of the nation, stating, “If voters keep on electing more opposition MPs even when the Government is doing a good job, then beyond a point, it must weaken the Government’s ability to govern, to form the best possible team for Singapore.” This underscores the delicate balance between ensuring effective governance and allowing for a diverse political landscape.
The looming spectre of the US-China trade war and its potential repercussions on global markets have added urgency to the upcoming elections. Singapore’s stability and economic prospects are intricately linked to domestic unity and strong leadership.
SM Lee stressed the need for Singaporeans to stand united, both to bolster the country’s international standing and to maintain investor confidence in the nation’s stability.
In addressing the desire for a stronger opposition presence in Parliament, SM Lee acknowledged the role of opposition MPs in providing checks and balances within a democratic system. He acknowledged the evolving landscape of Singapore’s political scene while reiterating the necessity of an efficient ruling party to uphold stability and progress.
In the 2020 General Election, the People’s Action Party (PAP) clinched 83 out of 93 seats in Parliament, marking a return to power.
However, their share of the popular vote decreased to 61.23 percent, down from 69.9 percent in 2015. Notably, the party lost the Sengkang group representation constituency, underscoring the evolving political landscape.
Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong defended the decision to hold the election amid the pandemic, despite objections from others, emphasizing the need to remain focused on combating COVID-19. He highlighted the challenge of formulating crucial pandemic policies amidst election uncertainties, stating, “We must have our minds focused on fighting Covid, and we can’t do that if every day I want to make a new Covid policy, I have to ask myself, do I do this before or after the election.”
Despite these obstacles, the PAP secured a strong mandate, enabling them to direct their efforts towards battling the COVID-19 pandemic.
This insight into the PAP’s performance in the 2020 General Election sheds light on the party’s resilience in the face of unprecedented challenges. It serves as an important factor to consider for voters in assessing the party’s ability to navigate future crises and lead the nation effectively.
As the country prepares for the upcoming polls, SM Lee urged support for Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and his team, emphasizing the crucial role of tripartism in driving Singapore’s continued development. This commitment to collaboration between the government, unions, and employers underscores the shared responsibility in shaping Singapore’s future.
