As Singaporeans gear up for the polls, the political stage is set for the country’s 14th General Election on 3 May 2024. Following the recent dissolution of parliament by President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, excitement and anticipation are palpable as voters prepare to cast their ballots.
Key Dates and Candidates
- Nomination Day: 23 April 2024
- Cooling-off Day: 2 May 2024
- Polling Day: 3 May 2024 (Public Holiday)
This election marks the first under Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and his fourth-generation leadership team, following his appointment as secretary-general of the ruling People’s Action Party (PAP) in December 2024. With 97 seats up for grabs across 33 constituencies, including 18 Group Representation Constituencies (GRC) and 15 Single Member Constituencies (SMC), the stakes are high.
The Candidates and Parties
As of now, candidates from at least 11 different parties, including two opposition alliances, are expected to contest all electoral divisions, continuing a trend since the 2015 polls. The Workers’ Party (WP), led by Pritam Singh and designated as the Leader of the Opposition, is anticipated to make significant waves once again.
Electoral Process Unveiled
Once the Nomination Day rolls around, candidates will submit necessary documents and deposits to the Returning Officer, Han Kok Juan, who has recently taken the helm on 1 April 2024. The election deposit cost is $13,500, refundable only if candidates secure at least 12.5% of the votes.
The subsequent days involve a nine-day campaign period, during which candidates can hold rallies, distribute manifestos, and engage with voters. All campaigning must cease on Cooling-off Day to allow voters time to reflect before polling opens.
Voter Concerns and Campaigning
As with previous elections, pressing issues such as the rising cost of living and employment rates are top of mind for voters. Candidates will undoubtedly focus their campaigns on addressing these concerns, marking a vibrant return to traditional electioneering activities that had been curtailed during the pandemic years.
Singapore’s unique electoral system ensures that candidates must adhere to strict guidelines, including obtaining permits for public rallies and managing online election advertising. This year’s election promises a lively contest, with all eyes on how the parties will address and engage with the electorate on key issues.
Closing and What to Expect
This General Election, the first in a post-COVID landscape, is not just a political contest; it’s a reflection of Singapore’s evolving democratic process. As the campaign heats up, Singaporeans are poised to make their voices heard on matters that affect their daily lives.