WP fielded 'strong slate' of candidates, gave PAP tough fight as expected: PM Wong

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong acknowledged that the Workers' Party (WP) fielded a "strong slate" of candidates for GE2025.

"They have many young people with a desire to contribute and serve. They gave us a tough fight in several constituencies as we had expected," he said.

The WP will now have 10 seats in parliament, along with perhaps two more Non-Constituency Member of Parliament seats, if they choose to accept them.

This would bring the WP's presence in Parliament to 12 seats, which is an increase from what they currently have, and means they will have a continuing opposition presence in Parliament.

PM Wong: I look forward to the opposition's contributions in Parliament

PM Wong then added that he was looking forward to the opposition's contributions in Parliament on national issues.

"I respect the opposition presence in Parliament. I've always taken their suggestions and views seriously, and I will continue to do so," he added.

On some issues, the PAP and the opposition may have to agree to disagree.

However, where "critical" national issues are concerned, both sides must uphold a shared responsibility in advancing Singapore's interests together in a "turbulent" world, he highlighted.

PM Wong: "Heartened" that all political parties rejected identity politics

PM Wong then noted that an issue which emerged during this election was the mixing of race and religion with politics.

He said:

"This was not just about foreign interference, because online, there were also many negative and even toxic comments my Singaporeans encouraging people to vote along racial lines.

I had to call it out in the middle of the campaign, because this was such an important matter."

PM Wong noted that the comments did moderate after he called it out in a press conference.

As to whether such comments had an impact on the election outcome, PM Wong said he did not know at the moment, and acknowledged that a more detailed analysis is required.

The prime minister then added:

"But I am heartened that all political parties made clear their stance in this campaign to reject identity politics and reaffirm their commitment to multiculturalism."

The election results have also shown that Singaporeans by and large reject identity politics and support a multiracial and multi-religious society, he noted.

PM Wong then said:

"I am grateful for your support, and to all communities in Singapore, I say we will continue to look after your interests, support your aspirations, and ensure that you are able to flourish and thrive in a multi racial and multi religious society.

This is my commitment to every community and to every Singaporean."

Top photo by Mothership