Lawrence Wong appointed PAP Secretary-General as CEC completes leadership transition

The People’s Action Party (PAP) has finalised roles for its 38th Central Executive Committee (CEC), with Lawrence Wong appointed as Secretary-General.

The announcement on 4 December 2024 follows the election of the CEC members on 24 November 2024 through a secret ballot by the party’s cadre members.

The 12 elected CEC members include Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and Senior Minister Lee Hsien Loong.

Up to six members were co-opted, including Chee Hong Tat, Tan See Leng, Desmond Choo, Lam Pin Min, Ng Chee Meng, and Sim Ann.

The committee plays a pivotal role in leading the party as it prepares for the next general election, due by November 2025.

Transition to new leadership

Lawrence Wong’s appointment as Secretary-General marks a significant phase in the PAP’s leadership transition.

Wong, who became Singapore’s fourth Prime Minister in May 2024, succeeds Lee Hsien Loong in the party role. Lee will remain in the CEC in an advisory capacity.

During the PAP’s 70th-anniversary convention on 24 November, Lee expressed confidence in Wong’s leadership and reaffirmed his support for the new team. “The structured handover ensures that the party is well-prepared for the future,” Lee said.

Lee said then that he would propose to the newly elected CEC that Wong be appointed as the party’s next secretary-general.

Following Lee’s speech, Wong reiterated the importance of continuity and renewal within the party. “The PAP must stay focused on its mission to serve Singapore and address evolving challenges,” Wong said.

CEC leadership appointments

The 38th CEC confirmed key roles, with Heng Swee Keat and Masagos Zulkifli appointed as Chairman and Vice Chairman, respectively.

Other key appointments include:

• Assistant Secretaries-General: Chan Chun Sing, Desmond Lee
• Treasurer: K Shanmugam
• Assistant Treasurer: Ong Ye Kung
• Organising Secretaries: Grace Fu, Edwin Tong

Sim Ann was named Chair of the PAP Women’s Wing, and Janil Puthucheary will chair Young PAP. Koh Poh Koon will lead the PAP Climate Action Group, reflecting the party’s focus on addressing environmental challenges.

Election and structure of the CEC

The 38th CEC election, conducted on 24 November 2024, saw 19 candidates vying for 12 elected seats.

Those not elected included Janil Puthucheary, Josephine Teo, Alex Yam, and Desmond Tan.

According to the PAP’s constitution, the CEC comprises up to 18 members. The elected members form the core leadership team, while co-opted members are included to enhance the committee’s capabilities.