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Straits Times
09-05-2025
- Politics
- Straits Times
When it comes to voting for the opposition, Singaporeans want it slow and steady, and not suddenly
A total of 27 candidates from (clockwise, top left) the National Solidarity Party, People's Alliance for Reform, Singapore People's Party, Singapore United Party and People's Power Party polled below 12.5 per cent and lost $364,500 collectively in election deposits. ST PHOTOS: TAY HONG YI, TARYN NG, KUA CHEE SIONG, GAVIN FOO, AZMI ATHNI Commentary When it comes to voting for the opposition, Singaporeans want it slow and steady, and not suddenly SINGAPORE - There was surprise, anger and a lot of disappointment. Such was the despondent mood in the opposition camp on May 3 when the results of the 2025 General Election were released and the PAP romped home with a victory of 65.57 per cent of votes. That the smaller opposition players did not gain any ground is as much a given as the PAP forming the Government. But this time, the defeat was more abject, with a total of 27 candidates from the National Solidarity Party (NSP), People's Alliance for Reform (PAR), People's Power Party (PPP) and Singapore United Party polling below 12.5 per cent and losing $364,500 collectively in election deposits. Never has so much in deposits been forfeited in an election. Some like the PPP and NSP even managed to poll below 1 per cent of votes, granted it was from a four-cornered fight in Tampines GRC. Parties, people or pace? Interpreting the results, analysts have been almost unanimous in their assessment that the vote was a repudiation of the smaller 'mosquito parties', with their haphazardly put together motley crew of candidates, lack of groundwork, and unclear positions. To say that this has led to soul-searching, though, would be overstating it. Perhaps emotions are still too raw. A disgruntled opposition politician from one of the smaller, but older, parties told a colleague of mine that if it were up to him, he would change his party's logo to a black heart, reflecting how Singaporeans have been hard-hearted despite the sacrifices of him and his ilk. Another from a newer party ranted that his leaders' strong faith in the electorate had been misplaced, since voters care more about brand than beliefs. To them, the people are to blame. A look back at past election results will show that this has happened before. Perhaps not the losing of deposits – the last time the opposition camp polled so badly was in 1972 when 22 candidates got below 12.5 per cent of votes – but the swing away from the opposition. In 2015, opposition parties tried to build on the momentum of the 2011 election, where the WP took Aljunied GRC, the first group representation constituency won by any opposition party. When the results were released, the PAP had won with 69.86 per cent of votes, a 9 percentage point swing from the previous election. After that, the 2020 election saw the WP adding to its turf with a win in Sengkang GRC. Then, of course, we have this just concluded 2025 election. While each swing may seem like a big win or a big loss, and seen discretely it is, over a longer term it is perhaps more indicative of the pace of change Singaporeans are comfortable with, than their preference for particular parties or policies. Surveys, like those done by the Institute of Policy Studies after each election since 2006, have consistently shown the desire among voters for greater political diversity. What the election results show, in concert with this, is the desire to get there slowly, steadily, and not suddenly. A vote for progress For the longest time, the umbrella term of 'opposition' has been used to refer to the many different opposition parties and politicians collectively. But this has changed in recent times, with the standout performance of the WP since 2011. While in the past, votes for opposition parties were often regarded as a vote for the opposition cause, or protest votes against the PAP, increasingly, votes for opposition parties will become more intentional. This means opposition parties can no longer rely on the old formula of banking on antipathy towards the PAP. At best, as this election shows, the die-hard anti-PAP vote bank is shrinking from the estimated 20 per cent to 30 per cent of voters, to below 20 per cent. In constituencies like Tanjong Pagar GRC and Queenstown SMC, the PAR got 18.97 per cent and 18.88 per cent of votes, respectively. With a plethora of parties to choose from, voters are thinking harder about what ideology each party subscribes to, looking at their policy suggestions and sizing up their candidates. As seen in the WP's showing, which was markedly better than even its closest competitors the PSP and Singapore Democratic Party, voters clearly expect certain standards of opposition candidates and parties, even if they are prepared to lower these standards in comparison to the PAP. The WP's parliamentary profile aside, it has been consistently recruiting higher-calibre candidates each election and putting out well-researched election manifestos. In addition, it has continued to cultivate the ground, with party chief Pritam Singh saying a day after the election that work goes on. This makes some of the other opposition parties look opportunistic, when they appear with a haphazardly assembled motley crew right before hustings begin, rustle up last-minute manifestos and also skip on the groundwork in between elections. While voting is a private decision, withholding support to such parties can only be good for Singapore, and in the long run will help to develop more credible opposition parties that will not just bumble through election cycle to election cycle. The vote this time around, then, was also a vote for the kind of opposition politics Singaporeans want to perpetuate, and also the kind they want to do without, a necessary step on the road towards a two-party or multi-party democracy. As Reform Party chief Kenneth Jeyaretnam famously said after the 2015 election, Singaporeans get the government they deserve. If I may add, also the opposition they deserve. Join ST's WhatsApp Channel and get the latest news and must-reads.
CNA
03-05-2025
- Politics
- CNA
GE2025: ‘Opposition unity is an illusion,' says NSP after suffering heavy losses in multi-cornered fights
SINGAPORE: The National Solidarity Party (NSP) will be "more aggressive and vocal" when it comes to dealing with other opposition parties in future, its secretary-general Spencer Ng said on Saturday (May 3). 'In this particular GE, opposition unity is an illusion,' he said, speaking to reporters in a rented house on Jervois Road after sample counts for its two contested constituencies were announced. 'We are not going to abide by… gentlemen rules anymore, since the opposition party has used this as an excuse to walk over us." NSP entered into multi-cornered fights in Sembawang and Tampines GRCs in the May 3 polls, after other opposition parties staked late claims following electoral boundary changes. It had contested both constituencies in the previous election. This time, the party received a mere 2.32 per cent of votes in Sembawang GRC, which saw a three-way contest. The People's Action Party (PAP) won with 67.75 per cent of the vote, while the Singapore Democratic Party (SDP) received 29.93 per cent. In the hotly-contested Tampines GRC, where four parties fielded candidates in, the NSP only garnered 0.18 per cent of the vote. The PAP retained the constituency with 52.02 per cent of the vote share, while the Workers' Party (WP) secured 47.37 per cent and the People's Power Party (PPP) took 0.43 per cent. As both NSP teams failed to clinch at least 12.5 per cent of the votes, their candidates will lose their election deposits. But Mr Ng said it was a 'small sacrifice'. Calling the results 'surprising', he said voters have rejected a more 'centralised and moderate' party like the NSP, opting instead for more 'radical' parties. 'Because of the political leanings that we have, maybe we are too moderate.' In a statement after the final results were announced, the NSP said it knew that contesting in Sembawang and Tampines would be a challenge, given that they would be multi-cornered fights. 'We knew that in an increasingly crowded opposition landscape, our voice risked being overshadowed,' said the party. 'But we chose to stand firm — not for ourselves, but for the voters we have never walked away from.' In the statement, the NSP called for greater mutual respect and coordination between opposition parties. The party also said it did not contest for the sake of ambition. 'We contested because we believe Singapore deserves better than a two-party system, better than last-minute decisions, and better than being left without choice,' said the statement. 'Throughout this campaign, we focused on what matters most to Singaporeans: the rising cost of living, housing pressures, job security, and the dignity of our elderly. 'But we also raised what few dared to: the need for deeper reform in our parliamentary system — to ensure that every voice, not just the loudest, is heard.' In its manifesto, the NSP called for the removal of goods and services tax (GST) on essentials, mandatory National Service for eligible new male citizens, and setting fixed dates to hold elections. WILL CONTINUE TO WALK THE GROUND Despite the party's heavy losses, Mr Ng said there are 'no regrets'. 'The original purpose is to serve the residents and to champion for them,' he noted, adding that the results do not reflect the efforts that his team has put in over the years. The party fared worse than it did in the previous election. In GE2020, the NSP faced the PAP in straight fights for both constituencies. Then, it received 32.71 per cent of votes in Sembawang and 33.59 per cent in Tampines. The party said in its statement early Sunday morning that it will continue to walk the ground and speak up for residents 'not just during elections, but every day after'. 'Because the work of building a fairer, kinder, and more inclusive Singapore does not begin or end at the ballot box,' said the party, adding that it will reflect on the results and regroup before moving forward. 'Don't worry, as I said, we are not going anywhere,' he said. 'We will still be around, and you'll be seeing more of us in the coming years.'
CNA
01-05-2025
- Politics
- CNA
GE2025: Eight parties deliver campaign messages in final political broadcast
SINGAPORE: Eight political parties delivered their final campaign messages on Thursday (May 1) in political broadcasts on free-to-air television and radio. This is the second bout of political party broadcasts – the first round aired on Apr 25. Each broadcast will be transmitted once on television and once on radio. Political parties that field at least six candidates under a recognised party symbol are eligible to take part in the broadcasts. Independents and political parties fielding fewer than six candidates are not eligible for them. In this General Election, eight parties are eligible for the political broadcasts – the National Solidarity Party, People's Power Party, Singapore Democratic Party, People's Alliance for Reform, Progress Singapore Party, Red Dot United, Workers' Party and People's Action Party. The duration of airtime allocated to each political party is based on the number of candidates it fielded. Eligible parties have been allocated between four and 14 minutes of airtime. The order of the broadcasts is determined by the number of candidates fielded by the parties, starting first with the party fielding the fewest candidates and ending with the party fielding the most candidates. NATIONAL SOLIDARITY PARTY When one political party dominates parliament, mistakes are overlooked and alternative ideas are buried, said NSP candidate Lee Wei. 'Without a stronger, fairer parliamentary system, your concerns are too easily ignored once the votes are counted,' said Mr Lee, who is contesting Sembawang GRC. A first-time candidate, Mr Lee highlighted rising HDB prices, escalating healthcare costs and recent scandals and data breaches that "slipped past without proper accountability" as examples of why stronger parliamentary scrutiny is needed. Political diversity does not create chaos, Mr Lee said. 'It creates better solutions. It forces leaders to listen, innovate and act in your interests.' He argued that Singapore needs more voices in parliament to push for transparent HDB pricing, better healthcare funding models and policies that ensure no one is left behind. 'We are not just about checks and balances. We are about action and accountability,' he said. Positioning himself as a relatable voice for the average Singaporean, Mr Lee said he understands the lived struggles of many. 'I speak to you not just as a candidate, but as someone who, like you, feels the pinch every day – at the supermarkets, coffeeshops, when paying for home loan or when planning for retirement.' He said Singaporeans deserve affordable homes without life-long mortgages, lower living costs and secure jobs. NSP has proposed solutions such as targeted GST exemptions for essential items as one measure to reduce everyday expenses. 'You deserve a government that fixes your bills today and a system that protects your dreams forever,' said Mr Lee, calling on Singaporeans to vote for his party. PEOPLE'S POWER PARTY PPP's Ang Mo Kio GRC candidate Thaddeus Thomas said there was a need for more diverse opposition in parliament. He noted there were several opposition parties to vote for, each with distinct values and visions. 'A parliament with multiple parties is like a vibrant marketplace. It drives all to work harder for Singaporeans' interests,' said Mr Thomas. 'And diversity is the foundation of innovation and progress.' In the party's political broadcast, he said PPP offers 'fresh, pragmatic policy solutions' and is not afraid to 'challenge established narratives'. For example, in housing, the party has suggested building for young couples affordable 2.5-room Housing and Development Board flats 'without land cost', to encourage them to start families early. PPP has also proposed including 1.5 million foreign workers in MediShield Life to 'expand risk pooling' and help 'lower insurance premiums' for Singapore citizens, said Mr Thomas. MediShield Life is a basic health insurance plan, administered by the Central Provident Fund (CPF), which helps to pay for large hospital bills and selected outpatient treatments. 'As we navigate complex challenges ahead, we need more than just a good co-driver,' said Mr Thomas. 'We also need vigilant inspectors to keep the driver and co-driver alert to ensure a safe journey ahead amid uncertainties. 'Real progress doesn't need a bigger opposition. It needs a more diverse opposition.' SINGAPORE DEMOCRATIC PARTY The party said it promises to run its own town councils if elected to parliament, as well as hold regular town halls and invite 'the relevant civil servants' to hear residents' views and solutions. SDP chairman Paul Tambyah hit out at the PAP, saying it 'appears to have no meaningful policies beyond vouchers and other handouts' in a period of global inflation. 'They have not addressed structural issues such as rental costs, utilities and transportation. Instead, they chose to raise the GST (Goods and Services Tax), not once but twice, adding fuel to the fire of inflation,' he said. He reiterated the party's proposal of reducing GST to 7 per cent, saying that SDP has shown this can happen without 'significantly affecting' the projected Budget surplus for the 2025 financial year. Professor Tambyah said the PAP 'appears determined' to raise Singapore's gross domestic product by 'attracting individuals who do not want to pay their fair share of taxes' and 'exploiting low-wage migrant workers to drive down the wages of Singaporeans'. He added that the SDP, in contrast, has a vision of Singapore where everyone can thrive – in reference to the party's slogan 'thrive, not just survive'. Prof Tambyah also said the PAP has 'chosen to parachute' some senior leaders to new constituencies 'at the very last minute for their own political agendas', but the SDP – with fewer resources – has been 'active in northern Singapore for the last 20 years'. He pointed to the party's policies that cover issues such as healthcare, housing and the economy. PEOPLE'S ALLIANCE FOR REFORM The People's Alliance for Reform (PAR) chief Lim Tean said PAP's call for a 'strong mandate' through turbulent times is 'nothing more than a distraction to mask their utter incompetence'. "This has been the most incompetent PAP government in history. They have turned (the) government into a sorry and unedifying spectacle. And yet, they have the audacity to ask you for a strong mandate again,' he added. Mr Lim listed previous PAP controversies, such as two ministers' rental of state bungalows at Ridout Road, a minister convicted of obtaining gifts as a public servant, the disclosure of individuals' full NRIC numbers on a government business portal, and the intended sale of Income Insurance to German insurer Allianz. The PAR candidate for Potong Pasir SMC said: "The sad truth, as we have seen over many years, is that no PAP backbench MP had the courage to challenge any Bills presented by the government in parliament. "They merely toed the party's line and on matters such as the GST hikes, that has caused you tremendous suffering." If elected into parliament, PAR MPs would "fight every day" to protect the interests of voters and those of their next generation, said Mr Lim. He added: 'Our proposals to lower your cost of living, make public housing affordable again, protect your jobs and to reduce significantly net immigration are well known." PROGRESS SINGAPORE PARTY The PSP will form a 'constructive and loyal' opposition if elected to parliament, said secretary-general Leong Mun Wai. 'We will continue to be a strong check against the PAP if it tries to bulldoze through policies that you don't really want,' he said in the party's political broadcast, citing the GST increase and Singapore's growing population as examples. He also pledged to speak out against "bad laws that can be abused", naming the Protection from Online Falsehoods and Manipulation Act as one such law. As former Non-Constituency MPs, he and PSP vice-chairperson Hazel Poa had questioned the government on issues such as the proposed sale of Income Insurance to Allianz and ministers' rental of colonial bungalows. They also initiated eight parliamentary debates on issues such as public housing, foreign talent policy, public finances and the preservation of hawker culture. 'We do not oppose for the sake of opposing,' said Mr Leong. 'We support the government when it is in the national interest.' Mr Leong also addressed what he described as the ruling party's attempts to 'scare' voters – that voting for PSP would result in the loss of ministers, a decline in foreign investment or poorly managed town councils. But Singapore has 'emerged stronger and better for it' when the PAP lost constituencies in previous elections, he said. The PSP has members and volunteers with experience managing town councils, Mr Leong said. Even if PAP candidates lose, they will typically be appointed as grassroots advisers by the People's Association, he added. 'If we are elected, we will work with them to make your lives better,' he said. RED DOT UNITED RDU secretary-general Ravi Philemon called attention to income inequality in Singapore, contrasting "those in power living in black-and-white colonial bungalows" with ordinary Singaporeans living in "shrinking" flats. 'Is the Singapore we have today fair to all citizens so that we can together achieve happiness, prosperity and progress for our nation?' he asked. While it is 'natural' for people to act in their self-interest, Mr Philemon warned against the rise of a "billionaire class" that he said would 'lock up opportunities' for others. 'We cannot expect them to look after us. We must protect ourselves. We must make our voices heard,' he said, calling on Singaporeans to vote for honesty, fairness and dignity. Mr Philemon said RDU is committed to ensuring that national policies are shaped by ordinary Singaporeans – 'not by people who are seated in ivory towers, cut from the same cloth, thinking the same way, too far removed from the struggles of ordinary Singaporeans". He emphasised the calibre of RDU's candidates, noting that they include PhD holders, government scholars and professionals across various fields. 'We have invested hundreds of thousands of dollars and risked our careers," he said. "Because building a better Singapore matters more.' WORKERS' PARTY Even if all of WP's candidates are elected, the PAP will still have a 'strong mandate to govern', said the opposition party's chair and candidate for Aljunied GRC Sylvia Lim. 'But it will govern subject to scrutiny by well-qualified, dedicated, and independent WP MPs.' She made this point while calling for 'a new spirit of confidence' needed for the next stage in Singapore's development, in the party's political broadcast. Ms Lim said Singapore has matured enough as a country to accept 'a much higher number of rational, respectable and responsible opposition MPs than we have now'. She also called for "a new spirit of caring". Citing a 2020 Singapore Management University survey which found that 10.4 per cent of Singaporean households experienced food insecurity at least once in a year, she noted that soaring inflation has made things worse since. Ms Lim said Community Development Council (CDC) cash vouchers are 'welcome', but questioned why all households receive the same amount of vouchers regardless of their size. 'And was it caring to raise GST from 8 to 9 per cent when the government was on its way to a huge Budget surplus?' She then said Singapore needed to adopt "a new spirit of competition", especially in politics. 'If competition is good in principle, then competition in politics must also be good,' she said, adding that the government has promoted competition in other industries like healthcare, telecommunications and transport. 'Vote for the Workers' Party and we will continue working for Singapore with a new spirit of caring, competition and confidence,' Ms Lim concluded. PEOPLE'S ACTION PARTY The election is not just about forming Singapore's government, but also about building tomorrow's leadership and taking the country forward, said Prime Minister Lawrence Wong. Renewal was needed, and that was why senior members on the team stepped down to make way for new blood. He said there are 'real consequences' to voting for the opposition, such as the potential immediate loss of three to four Cabinet ministers. Mr Wong added that amid growing global uncertainty and rising geopolitical tensions, Singapore could end up in a "very difficult spot" if caught in a crossfire between the US and China. 'To navigate this world effectively, Singapore will need leaders who are trusted by both sides - leaders whom they are familiar with, who they know personally, and who will not be easily pushed around,' said the PAP secretary-general. Mr Wong also said opposition parties often offer 'all sorts of sweet deals', but don't have to bear the responsibility of delivering what they proposed. 'Now each opposition party alone may not have enough candidates to form a government. But when you add them up, the numbers are not small. They present a serious challenge,' he said. He reiterated the Budget measures introduced to tackle cost-of-living and job concerns, and pledged to ramp up support if needed. He called on Singaporeans to build with him a country where all children fulfil their full potential, where every worker is valued and respected, and where seniors age with dignity. 'We carry a collective new resolve – to keep this Singapore miracle going, and to build a future that's even better than the last 60 years,' said Mr Wong.
Online Citizen
27-04-2025
- Politics
- Online Citizen
GE2025: NSP President Reno Fong pledges real solutions, not empty slogans
SINGAPORE: The National Solidarity Party (NSP) president, Reno Fong, declared that the party would not offer 'empty slogans' but real, tangible solutions for Singaporeans during the first political broadcast for the General Election 2025 on Friday (25 Apr). He outlined the party's vision for a more equitable society, calling for a 'transparent government with live parliamentary debates', climate action that extends beyond 'photo-op tree planting' events, and a political system 'where every vote counts equally'. 'For too long, we've been told: 'This is as good as it gets,'' said Fong, who addressed rising public frustration over persistent challenges. He noted that families are 'working harder than ever, yet struggling with rising costs', youths are 'burdened by an education system that sorts them at an early age', and seniors continue to worry whether their Central Provident Fund (CPF) savings will sustain them in retirement. 'This is not the Singapore we dreamed of,' he said, adding emphatically: 'Enough. Enough to policies that prioritise profits over the people.' 'Today we declare your future our priority and here is how we fight for it,' Fong pledged. On the economic front, he asserted: 'We will build an economy that works for you – not just for the privileged few.' Among NSP's key proposals are the implementation of a real minimum living wage, reforms to the CPF system, and 'SME-first policies' aimed at revitalising neighbourhood businesses. These were outlined in the party's 14-page manifesto, released earlier on Wednesday (23 April) and titled Your Future, Our Priority. The manifesto includes over 50 policy recommendations, such as removing the goods and services tax (GST) on essential items, fixing election dates, and introducing mandatory National Service for newly naturalised male citizens. Looking ahead, Fong said the party seeks to 'give our youth the stage they deserve'. The NSP proposes scrapping academic streaming systems that 'label children's failures at 12', ensuring free access to preschool education, and establishing a national platform called 'Youth Assembly SG' that will empower young people to shape legislation. Among other key proposals, the NSP will push for Build-to-Order (BTO) flat prices to be pegged to actual construction and land costs. The party is also advocating for a universal S$10 cap on general practitioner consultations at community clinics and the creation of 'mental health hubs' in every HDB town. 'We will protect what matters most – your home, your health,' Fong said, stressing the importance of social welfare and community support. In closing, he reminded Singaporeans that the national narrative is still evolving. 'The Singapore story isn't written yet,' he said. 'The next chapter belongs to you.' 'This is our pledge: We will fight for you, fight for your future as fiercely as we'd fight for our own children's. Because your struggles are our struggles. Your dreams are Singapore's dreams,' he declared. 'Together, let's build a nation where no one is left behind, where 'Your Future, Our Priority' isn't just a slogan – it's our promise.' The NSP was allocated the least amount of time for the public political broadcast (PPBs), as it is contesting a total of ten parliamentary seats. Eligibility for the PPBs is limited to political parties that field at least six candidates under a recognised party symbol. Fong is set to lead a five-member team into a four-way battle for Tampines GRC, while party secretary-general Spencer Ng will helm another five-man team contesting Sembawang GRC in a three-cornered fight.
CNA
25-04-2025
- Business
- CNA
GE2025: National Solidarity Party - Party Political Broadcast, Apr 25
The National Solidarity Party is offering 'real solutions' to problems, not just empty slogans, said NSP President Reno Fong. In a party political broadcast for GE2025 on Friday (Apr 25), he said NSP wants to build an economy that works for all, not just 'the privileged few'. His proposals include a minimum living wage, CPF reforms so that no senior outlives their savings and SME-first policies to grow neighbourhood businesses. Mr Fong also called for improvements in housing and healthcare affordability. NSP's plans include pricing BTO flats at cost, S$10 GP visits for all citizens and mental health hubs in every HDB town. The party also seeks greater empowerment of young people, through free preschool education so that every child 'starts life equal', abolishing streaming and creating a 'youth assembly' where young people's ideas can become law.
