The political landscape in Singapore is heating up as multiple opposition parties prepare to contest in the upcoming General Election on 3 May 2025. With increasing concerns about the cost of living and political representation, leaders from various parties have taken to the airwaves to outline their visions for a more responsive government.
Moving Toward Responsible Opposition
Sylvia Lim, chairperson of the Workers’ Party (WP), expressed confidence that Singaporeans are ready for a more ‘rational, respectable, and responsible’ opposition. In a recent political broadcast, she emphasised that even if all WP candidates were elected, the People’s Action Party (PAP) would still maintain a significant mandate to govern.
- WP is contesting 26 seats across various constituencies, including Aljunied GRC and Sengkang GRC.
- Lim highlighted rising inflation and questioned the fairness of government assistance schemes, such as the Community Development Council (CDC) vouchers.
- She pledged to continue raising issues concerning the cost of living if re-elected.
Calls for Greater Political Diversity
Lim Tean, from the People’s Alliance for Reform (PAR), has been vocal in his criticism of the current PAP government, labelling it as the “most incompetent in history.” His comments have sparked discussions around the need for a more diverse and fair parliamentary system.
- Leaders from other opposition parties, such as the National Solidarity Party (NSP) and Singapore Democratic Party (SDP), echoed these sentiments, advocating for a parliamentary system that better represents Singaporeans’ concerns.
- During the final political broadcasts, candidates highlighted housing affordability and economic policies as key issues.
Housing Inequality Under Scrutiny
Ravi Philemon of Red Dot United and Paul Tambyah from SDP pointed out significant gaps between the lifestyles of the elite and the everyday struggles faced by Singaporeans. Philemon’s remarks about the disparity in housing conditions have resonated with many.
Tambyah further argued that the government’s tax policies have not adequately tackled structural issues like rising housing costs. He proposed that revising the Goods and Services Tax (GST) could alleviate some financial burdens on citizens.
Last Push Before Polling Day
As parties make their final appeals before the Cooling-off Day, there’s a palpable urgency in the air. The opposition’s call for greater representation and policies that directly address public concerns highlights an evolving political atmosphere in Singapore.
The results on 3 May 2025 will determine the future balance of power in Parliament and could pave the way for a more dynamic political discourse.