Singapore's ruling party scores another resounding victory in polls, providing a crucial vote of confidence for the new prime minister.
Rewritten Article:
Singapore Slides: Long Ruling PAP Wins Another Landslide in Elections
Singapore's ruling People's Action Party (PAP) secured a triumphant victory in the recent general elections, extending its ironclad rule over the island nation for another decade. The PAP is now moving towards a historic seventh consecutive term since the party's inception back in 1959.
87 seats were confirmed for the PAP, with an additional five won uncontested, giving them a total of 92 out of 93 seats, as the Election Department declared on Sunday evening. The only opposition party, the Workers' Party, held onto their 10 seats, maintaining their status as the primary challengers to the PAP's authority.
The PAP managed to secure 65.6% of the popular vote, marking an increase from a near-record low of 61% in the 2020 polls. Supporters of the PAP, who see the party as a symbol of stability and prosperity, erupted in cheers and waved flags as the full results poured in.
Prime Minister Lawrence Wong expressed gratitude for the mandate given by the voters, promising to work harder for the people. "We understand your trust, and today, we honor it by redoubling our efforts," said Wong.
The success of the PAP may be attributed to a few key factors. Economist and finance minister Wong has positioned himself as a competent leader suitable to guide the country through challenging economic waters, in particular, the aftermath of U.S. President Trump's tariff hikes.
The party's strong organizational structure and convincing team of candidates have also contributed to its success. The PAP demonstrated their influence by winning a majority of seats across the country.
Unfortunately, opposition parties like the Workers' Party, despite maintaining their strongholds in Aljunied GRC, were unable to make significant gains or challenge the PAP's dominance. Critics attribute this to the parties' limited resources, scattered support, and lack of unity. Additionally, gerrymandering has given the PAP an edge in political districts.
Pritam Singh, leader of the Workers' Party, acknowledged the tough contest but pledged to continue fighting for a more balanced Parliament. He stated, "The slate is wiped clean – we start work again tomorrow, and we go again."
Although the Workers' Party did not expand their presence in the Parliament, they managed to consolidate their support in certain areas, according to Southeast Asia political analyst Bridget Welsh. Meanwhile, smaller opposition parties failed to make a notable impact.
Welsh explains that voters chose stability due to concerns over global volatility caused by sweeping U.S. tariffs. Wong's more approachable leadership style in engaging with younger voters, as well as his efforts to renew the PAP by introducing fresh faces, also played a role in securing votes.
"I call this the Wong and Trump effect," Welsh stated. "The issue of economic insecurity really did reinforce his mandate."
Additional Insights:
- Economic Stability and Leadership: The economic stability brought by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong's leadership and his reputation as a competent economist are crucial factors in the PAP's victory. Wong has been able to leverage his background in economics and his experience as Finance Minister to navigate the challenges posed by global trade disputes and maintain a strong economy.
- Limited Opposition Gains: Although the Workers' Party was able to maintain its strongholds, they failed to expand their presence in the Parliament. This has limited their ability to challenge the PAP effectively and shape national policy. Smaller opposition parties suffered the same fate, failing to make a significant impact on the election.
- The victory of Singapore's ruling People's Action Party (PAP) in the general elections can be partly attributed to the economic stability provided by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, who has demonstrated his competence as an economist and finance minister during times of global trade disputes.
- While the Workers' Party managed to maintain their strongholds and consolidate support in certain areas, their failure to expand their presence in the Parliament has limited their effectiveness in challenging the PAP's dominance, particularly in policy-and-legislation and politics, as well as shaping general-news agendas. Similarly, smaller opposition parties have struggled to make a notable impact in these areas.
