PSP’s new chief criticises lack of contingency planning in PAP’s leadership transition process

The newly elected secretary-general of the Progress Singapore Party (PSP), Francis Yuen took to Facebook on Tuesday (13 Apr) to criticise the lack of contingency planning in the People’s Action Party’s (PAP) leadership transition process.

Mr Yuen was referring to the sudden announcement made by Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat last week stating that he will no longer be in the running to become Singapore’s next Prime Minister.

In the post, Mr Yuen opined that for any organisation to be successful, it needs to think about alternative plans in areas that are affecting its performance.

“Contingency or scenario planning helps to mitigate situations that can catch us off-guard if ‘what-if’ situations are thought through. For a political party, this practice of ‘what-if’ thinking is just as relevant and important,” he said.

However, based on what has happened in relation to DPM Heng’s unexpected resignation, Mr Yuen said this brings up the question of whether there was any contingency planning involved in the first place.

The presence or lack thereof of a backup plan regarding the matter, he said, affects both the ruling party as well as the confidence of Singaporeans and the international community in the city-state’s future.

“The need for more time to sort things out can only suggest that the ruling party lacks a workable contingency plan that can be implemented quickly,” he added.

As such, Mr Yuen stated that this is an important lesson for all to learn as well as a “strong reminder” to always have backup options.

“The Progress Singapore Party (PSP) is entering a consolidation phase in its development. Embracing a “what-if” mentality as part of our DNA is crucial to building a strong party,” Mr Yuen concluded.

Also read: A look into alternative parties’ positions on PAP’s failed Prime Minister succession plan