SDA's Desmond Lim will not step down as chairman, monitoring developments in Pasir Ris-Punggol

Desmond Lim, chairman of the Singapore Democratic Alliance (SDA) coalition, has reversed an earlier decision to step down from his position.

On Mar. 11, 2025, speaking to Mothership, Lim said he previously indicated he would step down as chairman to "pave the way for a new generation of leaders."

However, after engaging with colleagues and others, Lim said he was "profoundly moved by the strong support and high expectations" placed on him.

"This overwhelming trust and friendship instilled in me a deep sense of responsibility," he added.

As a result, Lim has decided to "continue leading the Singapore Democratic Alliance with determination."

"I am committed to working tirelessly for our country's and its people's welfare, and I will not falter in meeting the expectations set before me," he said.

SDA previously competed in Pasir Ris-Punggol GRC

The SDA competed in only one GRC in the 2020 general election, standing in Pasir Ris-Punggol GRC.

In a three-cornered fight, the SDA came second, losing to a PAP team headed by Senior Minister Teo Chee Hean.

The Electoral Boundaries Review Committee (EBRC) report was released on Mar. 11, impacting Pasir Ris-Punggol GRC.

There will be a newly-created Punggol GRC (absorbing Punggol West SMC), while there will be a new Pasir Ris-Changi GRC which incorporates some parts of East Coast GRC.

SDA released a statement in wake of the report:

"We are closely monitoring the developments regarding the EBRC report, particularly the division of Pasir Ris Punggol GRC into two new GRCs, especially with the establishment of the new Pasir Ris-Changi, which includes the Loyang area.

These changes are expected to have a significant impact, and we are actively evaluating the situation to understand all potential implications.

We look forward to addressing public concerns and will issue a statement in due course. Thank you for your patience and understanding during this important time."

Background

The SDA is technically a coalition (a political group made up of more than one political party), having been registered in 2001.

At the time, it comprised the following parties:

• Singapore Justice Party (SJP)
• Singapore People's Party (SPP)
• National Solidarity Party (NSP)
• Singapore National Front (SNF)
• Singapore Malay National Organisation (PKMS)

However as of today, the SDA comprises just the SJP and PKMS.

In addition to SDA chairman, Lim is also the Secretary-General of the SJP.

The SDA stood in the 2001 general election, although it did not stand in Pasir Ris-Punggol.

It contested the GRC in the 2006 election, garnering 31.3 per cent of the vote.

In 2011, the SDA returned to Pasir Ris-Punggol, garnering 35.21 per cent of the vote.

In 2015, it only managed 27.11 per cent of the vote.

In 2020, the SDA won 37,237 votes, which made for a vote share of 23.67 per cent in a three cornered fight.

Lim made his debut in 2001, but went viral in 2013 after a gaffe-laden online rally video during the by-election for Punggol East SMC.

Undeterred, Lim continued his political journey, standing in subsequent elections.

Top image by Rachel Ng.