SINGAPORE — In a notable turn of events for the local political scene, the Reform Party (RP) has announced its withdrawal from the People’s Alliance for Reform (PAR), leaving the coalition with only two parties: the Peoples Voice (PV) and the Democratic Progressive Party (DPP). This decision, made public by RP secretary-general Kenneth Jeyaretnam on 7 July 2024, formalises the party’s exit at the end of July.
Background of the Alliance
The PAR, formed in June 2023, aimed to foster opposition unity and curtail three-cornered fights during elections. Initially consisting of four parties, it faced challenges from its inception; the People’s Power Party (PPP) withdrew earlier in February 2024 due to “irreconcilable strategic differences” regarding election strategies.
- Initial Formation: PAR comprised RP, PV, DPP, and PPP.
- First Election Challenge: The alliance contested six constituencies in the General Election on 3 May 2024, with a dismal 19.1% of votes overall.
- Failed Campaigns: All PAR candidates lost their deposits in a series of tough contests.
Statements from Leadership
In his announcement, Jeyaretnam expressed gratitude towards Lim Tean, PAR’s secretary-general, wishing him and the remaining parties success for the future. Lim, who played a pivotal role in leading the PAR, acknowledged that despite the setbacks, the alliance plans to reorganise and return stronger in the coming years.
Lim reassured supporters about the vitality of the alliance, stating, “We wish the Reform Party well in their future endeavours and thank them for having been part of the alliance.” He highlighted the influx of new members and volunteers who have resonated with the party’s principles since the recent elections.
Future Plans and Expectations
The remaining parties in the alliance are currently engaging in a rebuilding phase, charting their path forward. Following a recent meeting for volunteers, Lim mentioned that a concrete plan, founded on lessons learned from the 2024 election, would be implemented immediately.
- Focus on Expansion: PAR aims to increase its ranks and enhance its effectiveness in subsequent elections.
- Public Engagement: Continued outreach to the public will be vital to regain momentum.
As the local political landscape continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how these changes will impact voter sentiment ahead of future elections. The Generals elections are always a hot topic of discussion among Singaporeans, with the opposition keen to rally and refocus their efforts.