Lee Hsien Loong to propose Lawrence Wong as PAP’s next secretary-general

Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong announced on 24 November 2024 that he will propose to the newly elected Central Executive Committee (CEC) of the People’s Action Party (PAP) that Prime Minister Lawrence Wong be appointed as the party’s next secretary-general.

The announcement, made at the PAP’s biennial conference, signals the conclusion of the leadership transition that began in 2022.

“This will complete the leadership transition from me to my successor,” SM Lee said, describing the handover as a “significant milestone” for the party and himself.

Wong, currently the deputy secretary-general, has been positioned as the key figure to lead the party into the next general election.

Wong’s readiness for leadership

Wong has taken on increasing responsibilities within the PAP since being named deputy secretary-general after the 2022 party conference. Since then, he has chaired the party’s executive committee and played a central role in preparing for the next general election, due by November 2025.

In May 2024, Wong became Singapore’s fourth prime minister, succeeding SM Lee, who stepped down after 20 years in the role. SM Lee emphasised that the government transition had been smooth, a reflection of careful planning.

“Since becoming prime minister, he has taken on more responsibility in running the party and preparing for the challenges ahead,” SM Lee said, noting Wong’s growing leadership role within both the party and the government.

Lee’s continuing role within the CEC

Despite stepping down as secretary-general, SM Lee confirmed he would remain active within the CEC, providing support and advice when required. He made clear, however, that he would not be at the forefront of decision-making.

“In the CEC, as in the Cabinet, I will neither be the first responder nor the final decision-maker,” SM Lee said, adding that his focus would be on strengthening the party and supporting Wong in navigating challenges ahead.

Comparing transitions: Singapore vs global trends

SM Lee highlighted the challenges other countries often face during leadership changes, including internal party rivalries, sudden resignations, or election defeats. Such disruptions, he noted, are often destabilising for both parties and nations.

“In other countries, disruptive leadership changes bring discontinuity, upheaval, and uncertainty,” he said. He attributed Singapore’s stability to the PAP’s structured approach to succession planning, which he described as a “tremendous advantage” that ensures consistency in governance.

Challenges for PAP in the next election

As the PAP prepares for the general election, SM Lee warned of an evolving political landscape. He noted that newer generations of voters bring different expectations and may no longer take the PAP’s record of governance for granted.

“The election will be a hard-fought one,” SM Lee said, cautioning that the party cannot afford complacency. He stressed that the stakes are high, with voters not just choosing Members of Parliament but potentially deciding which party governs Singapore.

Mobilising party members for voter engagement

SM Lee urged PAP members to take an active role in connecting with the electorate, emphasising the need to build trust and demonstrate the party’s relevance in addressing current and future challenges.

“This is not just the responsibility of branch chairs or Ministers,” he said. “It is the responsibility of every member and activist.”