Singapore’s government has formally dissolved its parliament ahead of the expected May 3 general election. Yet this election is a major turning point for Lawrence Wong. It would mark his first electoral test since assuming leadership of the ruling People’s Action Party (PAP) last May. Known for its long-standing governance since Singapore’s independence in 1965, the PAP has consistently won the majority of parliamentary seats, navigating the city-state through various global challenges.
The new parliament’s dissolution opens up a hyper-competitive contest. Opponents have been on the march this election season, winning both statewide and local races. They gained their greatest victory in 2011, winning six districts, then doubling their lead to ten after the 2020 general election. Looking forward to seeing you in the home stretch to 2022!
Politicians
A total of 97 politicians are standing for election across 15 single-member electorates, and 18 four-member and five-member multi-member divisions.
Lawrence Wong’s Leadership Test
Wong has indeed stepped into the leadership following Lee Hsien Loongs’s long reign. Lee led the People’s Action Party (PAP) for 61 years. Wong, a US-trained economist, brings new ideas to the opposition party. This is at a critical juncture defined by historic worldwide transitions. He noted that avoiding overregulation while being responsive to these changes is extremely important, saying.
“We are witnessing profound changes in the world.” – Lawrence Wong
His leadership style will need to take a very different, more adaptive approach. Yet Singapore now needs to weather challenges that are different from those that allowed it to thrive before.
Wong’s call for this general election is an important first step. He wants to reestablish himself as the most powerful figure in the party and the most popular one with voters.
“That is why I have called this general election.” – Lawrence Wong
His intention is clear: to engage with the electorate and address their concerns while reinforcing the PAP’s commitment to effective governance.
The Political Landscape Ahead
The PAP is also known around the world for its clean and efficient governance, which has been at the core of its long-held popularity. Wong’s leadership is about to be put to a big test. An equally dynamic and determined opposition is eager to carry out a new agenda. Those elections will be a referendum on Wong’s leadership. More importantly, they will test the PAP’s hegemonic capacity to hold onto power through changing political sentiments—a dominance that has lasted since independence in 1965.
Wong recognizes that this election is not just a political battle.
“This is a passing of the baton not just between leadership teams but also across generations.” – Lawrence Wong
As the PAP prepares its campaign strategies, it must consider the evolving expectations of voters and the increasing influence of opposition parties.
Looking Forward
The 2023 general election will surely be a decisive event in Singapore’s political development. With Lawrence Wong at the forefront, the PAP aims to navigate both internal party dynamics and external pressures from an empowered opposition. As Singapore approaches this critical juncture, citizens will closely watch how Wong manages this transition and what it means for the future of governance in their nation.
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