The People’s Action Party (PAP) launched today (June 27) its manifesto ahead of the upcoming general election.
He noted that Singapore is going into elections amid the COVID-19 pandemic and stressed that the next government has a tough task ahead.
Unveiling the manifesto titled “Our Lives, Our Jobs, Our Future”, PM Lee said that in a normal election, the manifesto would focus on all long-term ideas to improve and transform Singapore such as projects like the Tuas Megaport and Changi Terminal 5 among others.
He added that in normal elections, what is usually of much interest to voters is the routine business of keeping Singapore going, but this time is different.
The central focus of the manifesto is how “we will work together to overcome this crisis of a generation”, he said.
To put the manifesto into action, the party needs the full support of Singaporeans, as well as a strong, steady and capable leadership team.
PAP Sees New Faces, But Prominent MPs Have Also Retired
He also highlights that the new faces introduced each bring something different to the team, with several who have taken the harder road to success.
The PAP is fielding 27 new candidates this election, more than a quarter of the party’s total slate, and more than in any previous election, said Mr Lee.
There is a “good mix”, with entrepreneurs, businessmen and women, lawyers, social workers, public servants and Singapore Armed Forces officers, he added.
There are also more women – double the number from 2015’s general election – including Singapore’s first female SAF general Gan Siow Huang.
Mr Lee noted that the PAP teams have been hard at work on the ground in Hougang and Aljunied.
“Now they are ready to contest again, this time wiser, more experienced, and having formed deeper bonds with the residents.”
About 20 MPs are retiring this year, said Mr Lee. This includes incumbent Deputy Speaker of Parliament Charles Chong.
Mr Lee recalled how Mr Chong won several elections by “the skin of his teeth”.
It is not because he is a weak MP, but because when there is a tough fight and the party needs a strong candidate who will fight hard and fight smart, “we send in Charles Chong”, he said.
Others retiring include Transport Minister Khaw Boon Wan and Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong who earlier this week announced their retirements.
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Featured Image Credit: People’s Action Party