In a significant political event for Singapore, the People’s Action Party (PAP) achieved a remarkable victory in the recent parliamentary elections held on Saturday. This election was the first since Prime Minister Lawrence Wong took office in 2024. The PAP secured 87 out of 97 seats in the Parliament, reinforcing its long-standing dominance in Singapore’s political landscape.
Wong, who is 53 and trained as an economist in the United States, expressed gratitude for the support from the voters. He emphasized that the results reflect a strong mandate for the PAP to govern. "Singaporeans have given the PAP a clear and strong mandate to govern," Wong stated. He pointed out that this victory positions Singapore to better handle global challenges and sends a message of trust and stability to the world.
The PAP has been in power since Singapore gained independence in 1965. This recent win marks the party’s 14th consecutive electoral victory. Wong’s leadership is notable as he is the first prime minister to increase the party’s vote share after a transition in leadership.
The election saw over 65 percent of the nearly 3 million registered voters casting their ballots for the PAP. The opposition Workers’ Party, which focused on housing and economic relief, managed to secure only 10 seats, representing about 15 percent of the total vote. Other opposition parties struggled to gain traction, with the National Solidarity Party recording its lowest vote share ever.
Despite some dissent leading up to the election, including a critical op-ed from the son of Singapore’s founding prime minister, voters overwhelmingly supported the PAP. Wong’s government had also taken steps to counter misinformation, including requesting Meta to remove posts allegedly linked to foreign interference.
The election campaign was notably brief, lasting only nine days. Wong’s administration faced rising inflation and concerns over a trade war between the U.S. and China, yet the PAP’s focus on economic stability resonated with voters. Wong reiterated the importance of competent governance during these turbulent times, assuring citizens that the PAP is best equipped to lead Singapore forward.
Following the election results, Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, congratulated Wong and highlighted the strong partnership between Singapore and the European Union, emphasizing cooperation in trade, investment, and security.
Wong’s victory not only consolidates the PAP’s power but also reflects the party’s ongoing influence in shaping Singapore’s future amidst global uncertainties.