The People’s Action Party (PAP) has elected a new central executive committee (CEC), with Prime Minister Lawrence Wong stepping into a pivotal role. This decision came during the biennial PAP conference held on 24 November 2023, marking a significant transition ahead of the upcoming general elections, which must be held by November 2025.
New Faces and Familiar Leaders
The newly elected CEC comprises members with a mix of experience and fresh perspectives:
- Prime Minister Lawrence Wong
- Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong
- Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat
- Minister for Education Chan Chun Sing
- Minister for Social and Family Development Masagos Zulkifli
- Minister for Sustainability and the Environment Grace Fu
- Minister for Home Affairs and Law K Shanmugam
- Minister for National Development Desmond Lee
- Minister for Culture, Community and Youth Edwin Tong
- Minister in the Prime Minister’s Office Indranee Rajah
- Minister for Health Ong Ye Kung
- Minister for Foreign Affairs Vivian Balakrishnan
Transport Minister Chee Hong Tat was co-opted into the CEC, while Minister of Manpower Tan See Leng also joined following a successful election campaign.
A Legacy of Leadership
Senior Minister Lee announced his intention to step down as the party’s secretary-general but will retain his position as a member of the CEC. He recommended during his speech that PM Wong succeed him in this key leadership role, completing the transition to the fourth generation of PAP leaders.
Throughout the conference, the PAP celebrated its rich history coinciding with its 70th anniversary. The event, attended by approximately 3,000 party members and guests, served as both a reflection on the past and a look towards the future.
Looking Ahead: High Stakes for the Next Election
In his address, PM Wong emphasised the importance of earning the trust of Singaporeans. He cautioned against complacency, saying, “Please don’t think it is guaranteed the PAP will win and form a stable government.” His comments underline the need for diligence and engagement as the party prepares for the electoral battle ahead.
With the new CEC in place, the PAP is gearing up for decisive leadership in the coming years, closely monitored by party insiders and Singaporeans alike.