Browsing Tag

People’s Action Party

315 posts

Power has corrupted the PAP and they need to be checked

The article by Foong Swee Fong critically analyzes the People’s Action Party’s governance in Singapore, exploring instances of conflicts of interest and questionable morality, citing Lord Acton’s axiom, ‘Power corrupts, and absolute power corrupts absolutely.

Adding one extra “leg” to the renewed social compact in Singapore

While not traditionally known for political freedom, Singapore has been experimenting with more consultative governance. Simone Galimberti discusses how the People’s Action Party (PAP) is leveraging these consultations to develop a new social contract, with goals for a fairer, stronger society. However, Galimberti argues that true progress requires not just improved social and economic structures, but also increased personal and political freedoms.

Ng Chee Meng’s out of this world praise of Tharman sums up the brand of politics in this country

Augustine Low opines National Trades Union Congress Secretary-General, Ng Chee Meng, has been overly effusive in his support of Tharman Shanmugaratnam’s candidacy for the elected presidency. Low criticizes what he perceives as a culture of self-promotion within Singapore’s political elite.

How do you take the PAP out of the PAP man?

Senior Minister Tharman Shanmugaratnam’s resignation from the party and government positions to run for the presidential election may seem like a break from the People’s Action Party (PAP). But it’s not that simple, says Augustine Low. Mr Tharman has been a dedicated PAP member for decades, and his ties to the party cannot be severed so easily. The PAP has a vested interest in ensuring that the elected president is always affiliated with the party. Mr Tharman’s resignation and candidacy are likely to be part of a scripted game orchestrated by the PAP, similar to the case of Mdm Halimah Yacob.

Vivian and Shanmugam had differences but became neighbours at Ridout bungalows eventually

In a historical debate from 1990, now-Ministers Balakrishnan and Shanmugam clashed over the government’s questioning of Singaporean loyalty. While Balakrishnan challenged the government’s approach, Shanmugam defended it as an attempt to face hard realities. Despite this contentious past, both men later found common ground in the People’s Action Party and even neighbours now.

PAP Town Councils to implement phased hike in Service and Conservancy Charges due to rising costs

Amid escalating costs, Singapore’s People’s Action Party (PAP) town councils will raise Service and Conservancy Charges (S&CC) in two phases over the next two years. The increase will affect HDB residents, commercial properties, and market and food stalls. The first increment takes effect on July 1, 2023, with the next on July 1, 2024. Marine Parade Town Council stated that government funding support has helped to moderate the hikes, which are necessary to maintain estate upkeep and long-term maintenance funds.

Colonial bungalow controversy: A window to the disparity between past and present leaders

In an opinion piece by Augustine Low, questions are raised about the occupation of colonial bungalows to ministers in Singapore. Low contrasts the modesty and selflessness of leaders like Dr Goh Keng Swee, who shunned opulence, with the current ministers who reside in ostentatious bungalows. He highlights the disconnect between these leaders and the struggles of ordinary people, questioning their ability to understand the challenges faced by the average citizen. The piece argues that when leaders become detached from the people, they lose touch with their needs and aspirations.

Young Singaporeans fed-up with housing and want to vote for opposition in next GE

Bloomberg reports that young single Singaporeans, frustrated with housing policies, are considering voting against the ruling People’s Action Party (PAP) in the next election. Many, priced out of the market, are opting to rent, but soaring rental prices are causing further dissatisfaction.

PAP and WP: Who is checking who?

Augustine Low argues that the Workers’ Party (WP) in Singapore, known for its role in checking the People’s Action Party (PAP), now finds itself under scrutiny. Following the 2020 general election, the PAP has shifted the focus onto the WP’s proposals and ideas, painting them as inconsistent, opportunistic, and lacking concrete alternatives. Low suggests that the WP must risk more and be more confrontational, potentially losing battles but ultimately winning the war for the support of Singaporeans.

Kenneth Jeyaretnam slams PAP’s “fake solidarity” in May Day speech

Reform Party Secretary-General, Mr Kenneth Jeyaretnam launched a scathing critique of Singapore’s ruling People’s Action Party (PAP) and its leaders, particularly Mr Lawrence Wong, accusing them of feigning concern for ordinary Singaporeans while undermining their interests. In a passionate opinion piece, Jeyaretnam highlighted income disparities, questioned housing arrangements, allegations of nepotism, and called out the lack of transparency. Urging citizens to scrutinize the PAP’s claims of unity, Jeyaretnam emphasized the need to examine Singapore’s reserves and question who truly benefits from their management.