Former VP Pence announces US presidential run

Mike Pence announces his candidacy for the 2024 US presidential election, joining an already crowded field that includes Donald Trump. Pence, known for his loyalty to Trump, faces competition from Florida Governor Ron DeSantis. Trump remains the early front runner in polls, despite facing legal challenges.

Philippine court denies bail for Duterte critic: lawyer

Philippine human rights activist Leila de Lima was denied bail on the remaining drug trafficking charge against her. She has been detained for over six years and claims the charges were fabricated to silence her. If convicted, she could face life in prison. The decision has been criticized as politically motivated. De Lima has faced health issues during her detention, but the judge ruled they were not compelling grounds for bail. She has been a vocal critic of President Duterte and his drug war.

Voices from Jurong GRC: Rising living costs, healthcare concerns, and unaddressed local issues echo through Red Dot United’s walkabout

Red Dot United’s recent community walkabout in Jurong GRC, Singapore, revealed residents’ anxieties about the rising cost of living, retirement worries, and healthcare accessibility following West Point Hospital’s closure. Residents voiced their concerns for a more responsible opposition party and shared their fears about a neighbouring elderly hoarder’s well-being.

President Jokowi and Megawati Soekarnoputri reaffirm solidarity at PDI-P national working meeting

The public display of solidarity between President Jokowi and Megawati Soekarnoputri dispelled rumors of a strained relationship as they expressed full support for PDI-P candidate Ganjar Pranowo. Speculation had suggested Jokowi’s preference for another candidate, but their united front at the PDI-P National Working Meeting showcased solidarity and commitment.

Trump foe Christie launches presidential run

Former New Jersey governor Chris Christie joined the 2024 White House race, positioning himself as a formidable opponent to frontrunner Donald Trump. Christie, known for his sharp criticisms of Trump, emphasized the former president’s self-obsession and dishonesty. With a crowded field, Christie’s campaign could garner significant attention and pose a challenge to Trump’s dominance in the polls. However, Trump dismissed Christie’s announcement as rambling and predicted rejection in New Hampshire. The race also sees former running mates Christie and Mike Pence becoming rivals, adding to the intriguing dynamics.

Dr Chee Soon Juan’s lunch with Dr Tan Cheng Bock raise speculation over possible collaboration between SDP and PSP

Speculation grows about a potential collaboration between Singapore’s SDP and PSP, following a shared lunch photo of Dr Chee Soon Juan and Dr Tan Cheng Bock. The meeting comes after Dr Tan’s recent declaration of readiness for the 2025 General Election. This development aligns with a broader trend towards coalition-building among Singapore’s alternative political parties, as evidenced by the recent formation of the ‘People’s Alliance’.

Minister Sun Xueling responds to rude email feedback, netizens urge “focus on groundwork”

A resident’s frustrated email to People’s Action Party MP Sun Xueling and others, complained about noisy heavy vehicles near Punggol Way and uneven cement floors at the void deck. The resident made racially biased remarks, criticized road design, and threatened electoral consequences unless actions were taken. Sun responded by rectifying the pavement issue, addressing parking concerns, and encouraged civil feedback. While some netizens criticized Sun’s public reaction, others defended her, emphasizing focusing on issues and feedback rather than individuals involved.

Damanhuri Bin Abas departs from Muhammadiyah Islamic College amid speculations of political influences

Former Singapore Democratic Party candidate, Damanhuri Bin Abas, abruptly exited his Director position at Muhammadiyah Islamic College (MIC) two months post his rejoining, following retirement from active politics. In his Facebook posts, Damanhur lauds his colleagues, maintaining political roles alongside professional positions, without conflict. His own recent MIC departure, amid speculations of political interference, ironically raises questions about the practice of political neutrality in Singapore’s professional landscape.

Red Dot United calls for greater transparency and accountability over ministers’ residency controversy

Red Dot United (RDU) has called for transparency over the controversy surrounding the rental and residency of two People’s Action Party ministers in Ridout Road. It expressed concerns over the lack of accountability, potential conflicts of interest, and the disparity between the ministers’ lifestyles and everyday Singaporeans amidst challenging economic times.

Hong Kong artists mark Tiananmen quietly or overseas

Artistic expressions commemorating the Tiananmen Square crackdown have dwindled in Hong Kong since the implementation of the national security law in 2020. Public events and performances that once marked the anniversary have been suppressed, and artists face uncertainty and repercussions. Some artists have relocated their works to Taiwan, where they continue to foster a connection to the memory of Tiananmen and advocate for freedom and democracy. However, concerns persist over erasure and censorship in both Hong Kong and Taiwan.