By now, most Singaporeans know that Emeritus Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong is a grandmaster at throwing shade.

His comedic timing is also peerless.

Now that the stage is set, let's get on with the story proper.

Poked Cabinet to act

In late 2017, the 76-year-old gently poked the Cabinet to pick the next Prime Minister with a six- to nine-month deadline.

And this artful Facebook post created a ripple effect.

First, it generated some excitement regarding the topic of who is the next PM.

Then 16 political holders had to come together and issue a statement to respond to Goh, saying that they will pick a leader "in good time".

No new deputy PMs a sign

Last week, PM Lee announced that there will be no new deputy prime ministers appointed during the Cabinet reshuffle.

He also commented about Goh's six to nine months timeline with a stinger.

"ESM (Goh) is speaking with the privilege of watching things rather than being responsible to make it happen. I think we know it's a very serious matter."

 

Burn.

Of course, Goh would like to have the last word. He posted this last night (Feb. 2).

"Had a good, warm chat with former Iranian Minister of Economic Affairs and Finance, Dr Tayebnia. He is our first LKY Exchange Fellow from Iran. I recalled my two visits to Iran fondly, the first as Prime Minister and the second, as Senior Minister. Both of us now 'watch' things happen, and coincidentally share a common title. He serves as Senior Advisor to his President while I serve as Senior Advisor to MAS! --- gct (emphasis ours)"

What a guy.