Singapore’s ruling party is preparing for a watershed election this Saturday. At this election, Melbourne voters will again face the challenging realities of their everyday lives, including the impact of the current cost of living crisis and increasing divides along social demographics. That has made this election a first big test for Mr Wong. He assumed the Prime Ministership last December when Lee Hsien Loong finally stepped aside, after a two-decade-long reign. As Singapore’s political landscape evolves, the outcome remains anticipated amidst a backdrop of historical dominance by the People’s Action Party (PAP).
In the wake of recent government decisions, including a hike in the Goods and Services Tax (GST) from 3% to 9%, many Singaporeans express concerns regarding their economic situation. According to a YouGov survey, 72% of respondents identified the cost of living as the most critical issue facing the nation. This sentiment rings true across the board with voters as they see firsthand the impacts of these changes.
Challenges Facing the Government
The PAP has held power since Singapore gained self-rule from Britain in 1959, consistently winning at least 85% of parliamentary seats in elections. According to national advocacy surveys released in the last two weeks, voter’s attitudes have flipped. Of all decided voters, 63% intend to vote for the PAP. By contrast, just 15 percent support the Workers’ Party, the current dominant opposition party that captured ten of 93 legislative seats in the most recent election.
Prime Minister Wong focused on these concerns, making the election’s importance clear given the gravity of national crises. He stated,
“It’s a vote to weaken the PAP team, the team that is truly working for you.” – Lawrence Wong [Channel News Asia]
Wong underscored the potential dangers of undermining the ruling party while the country faces several important national crises. He argued that the lack of opposition support would undermine the government’s capacity to address their most important concerns in an effective manner.
Opposition Leader Pritam Singh recently voiced his concerns over the political climate, saying ,
“But it’s certainly not fair. The level of intimidation and the government’s control of the media … We go into it just assuming that the government is never going to get less than 85 per cent of the seats.” – Pritam Singh
Singh pointed to the Workers’ Party’s medium-term political objective of getting at least one-third of parliamentary seats. This promise deepens their stated intention to bring in government other voices and points of views.
The Role of New Candidates
Activist Han Hui Hui, an opposition candidate in the current election. She was elected on behalf of the People’s Alliance for Reform (GERAK), in Tanjong Pagar—once a traditional stronghold of the PAP. Han, a mother of three, knows she has a big challenge ahead of her, but is committed to pushing for the reform needed. Few voters want to support alternative parties because they fear a lack of governing experience. The ideas may terrify her, but she is unapologetic about the importance of taking risks to move forward.
Han understands that she has a difficult road ahead as a political outsider. She’s not one to be discouraged and is committed to moving the needle and upending the status quo. She remarked on her willingness to take the first step toward reform, even if it means not winning this election:
“I think people are concerned about how the government is not performing. They are also very scared of voting for the opposition.” – Han Hui Hui
Her candidacy is a bellwether of what many voters want, an increasingly diverse and representative parliament with different viewpoints.
“I’m willing to be the person to take the first step, knowing I will not win.” – Han Hui Hui
With 2.76 million registered voters legally obligated to show up to this election, stakes couldn’t be higher. The prevailing mood is one of guarded optimism for anyone wishing for an upheaval. Other observers propose that Wong needs at least a persuasive mandate behind him, otherwise calls for accountability for his leadership will commence.
Voter Sentiment and Expectations
With the election around the corner, voter mobilization will be key. Citizens are considering their choices deeply, processing the short term needs and the long term changes this would have on Singapore’s growing political consciousness.
Michael Barr noted,
“If he does poorly, which means a drop in the vote or the opposition picking up some more seats, he should be looking over his shoulder.” – Michael Barr
As the election approaches, voter engagement remains crucial. Citizens are weighing their options carefully, reflecting on both immediate concerns and long-term implications for Singapore’s political landscape.
