PM Wong calls for unity, warns of opposition risks ahead of election at PAP’s 70th anniversary

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, speaking at the People’s Action Party’s (PAP) 70th-anniversary convention on 24 November 2024, called for national unity in navigating an uncertain global landscape while outlining his vision for Singapore’s future.

Addressing party members and supporters, Wong emphasised leadership renewal, tackling cost-of-living challenges, and building a more inclusive society as key priorities.

“The world is in flux, with established norms fading but a new order yet to take shape,” Wong said, citing the wars in Ukraine and the Middle East as examples of growing instability.

“We can expect more conflict and instability in the world, as state and non-state actors test boundaries – often with little or no consequence.”

He warned of a vacuum in global leadership as the United States steps back from its role as the “world’s policeman,” exacerbating tensions with China.

“There is deep suspicion and mistrust between the US and China,” he said. “Each is taking steps to enlarge its sphere of influence, making it harder to find common ground.”

Wong urged Singaporeans to rise above their differences on such global issues. “It is already tough for a small country to be heard. It will be even tougher if our voice is diffused and incoherent,” he noted. He stressed the importance of speaking with one voice on the world stage to safeguard Singapore’s interests.

Domestic concerns: Rising costs and leadership renewal

Wong acknowledged the financial pressures many Singaporeans face, attributing them to persistent global inflation.

“While inflation in most places has moderated, price levels remain higher than before. This impacts people’s sense of well-being,” he said. He cautioned that dissatisfaction over rising costs has led to strong anti-incumbency sentiments globally, with many ruling parties losing vote shares or mandates.

To mitigate the impact, Wong cited significant assistance packages introduced over the past years and announced that another tranche of CDC vouchers would be distributed in January 2025. “The Government is doing its best to shield Singaporeans from the worst effects of global inflation,” he said. “Hand on heart, we are doing all that we can.”

Leadership renewal within the PAP was a major theme of Wong’s address. He described it as a critical task for ensuring Singapore’s continued success.

Earlier in the event, Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong said that he would propose to the Central Executive Committee for Wong to be appointed as the PAP’s next secretary-general, completing a leadership transition that began in 2022.

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

“Let me be candid and upfront with all of you. Look at the current Cabinet – more than half of the ministers are aged 60 and above,” he said.

Wong shared how he had sought advice from his predecessors, Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong and SM Lee, both of whom faced similar challenges in attracting new political talent.

“It is never easy to get good people to enter politics,” he admitted, calling the process “the most crucial, most urgent thing I must do.”

He highlighted the importance of bringing in younger candidates early to allow them to gain experience and build confidence.

Reflecting on his own journey, Wong said, “When I entered politics in 2011, I realised there was still so much to learn. There is tremendous value in starting early.”

Strengthening the PAP for the future

Wong stressed the need for the PAP to adapt to a more competitive political landscape. “In the past, the Government would go out to engage citizens, explain policies, and solicit feedback. But the PAP can no longer operate from the back,” he said. Instead, the party must step forward to mobilise citizens, explain its policies, and engage Singaporeans on issues that matter to them.

He also addressed concerns about opposition voices in Parliament, saying, “The opposition in Singapore is here to stay.

There have been opposition MPs continuously since 1981, and the Non-Constituency MP scheme guarantees at least 12 opposition MPs in Parliament.”

However, he cautioned against a significant swing in votes toward the opposition, warning that this could lead to a weaker government with reduced problem-solving capacity.

Wong urged party members to work hard to win Singaporeans’ trust, acknowledging the high stakes in the next general election due by November 2025.

“We must never assume we will not see a change in government in our lifetimes,” he said.

A call to unity and shared vision

Wong concluded his speech by reaffirming his commitment to building an inclusive and fair Singapore.

He envisioned a country where every citizen, regardless of background, has equal opportunities to succeed. “Here in Singapore, we are all equal. So long as we work hard and aim high, we can turn possibilities into achievements and dreams into reality,” he said.

He also reiterated the PAP’s mission to serve all Singaporeans, vowing to fight for their support. “Together, we will build a better Singapore – with Singaporeans, for all Singaporeans,” he said to applause.