Consider what this election means for the future, not just in terms of tactical voting: PM Wong on GE2025

Voters should recognise what is at risk and equip themselves with the best team to allow Singapore to continue moving forward, said Prime Minister Lawrence Wong on Apr. 23.

At a press conference regarding the developments on Nomination Day, PM Wong urged voters to consider Singapore's future in an "uncertain and turbulent world", not just "community issues."

"All of us should be concerned. And I hope Singaporeans, regardless of your background, will look at this, recognise the stakes, recognise what is at risk, and equip themselves with the best team that will allow Singapore to continue moving forward."

New faces

PM Wong also shared that it was "a priority" for him to bring in fresh PAP candidates for GE2025 to strengthen the team.

The PAP has fielded 32 new faces in GE2025, its largest slate of new faces in recent history.

Two of the new faces, Diana Pang and Goh Pei Ming, are already confirmed as MPs after Marine Parade-Braddell Heights GRC saw a walkover.

Amongst the new faces, there will be a few with the potential to be political office-holders, PM Wong noted.

"So we are putting them forward, and we hope Singaporeans will see their potential too, and will help me elect them into parliament," said PM Wong.

PM Wong also thanked outgoing senior parliamentarians and Cabinet members Heng Swee Keat and Teo Chee Hean for their decision to step down and make way for leadership renewal.

It was announced just earlier that day that Heng and Teo would both be retiring from politics and not running in GE2025.

Choose the best candidates

Regarding the issues faced by different communities in Singapore, PM Wong said the PAP has continued to engage residents, business owners and employees and will address their concerns "to the best of our abilities".

When asked which constituency would be a tough fight, PM Wong said, "There will be tough contests everywhere. I have no doubt about that."

But more importantly, PM Wong urged voters to look beyond community issues or "tactical voting" to the future of Singapore.

"Choose who you believe are the right individuals that you want to represent you in your constituency and in parliament in our country. They ought to be individuals who are capable, people with integrity, people of good character."

"And may Singaporeans choose the best candidates amongst the slate of candidates that we are presenting," he added.

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Top image by Mothership