President Tharman commends spirited but decorous GE2025 contest at Cabinet swearing-in, calls it a ‘win for S’pore’

Singapore and Singaporeans were the winners in the 2025 General Election, said President Tharman.

He was speaking at the swearing-in ceremony of the new Cabinet on the evening of May 23.

Commending the campaign as “spirited” yet “decorous and respectful”, the head of state said that Singaporeans upheld a tone of “mutual respect and serious engagement” amid the election.

He also pointed out that Singapore stood firm against foreign interference during GE2025 and rejected the politicisation of race and religion.

“Singaporeans showed that while we may hold different views, we are all fellow citizens who want the best for our nation,” he said.

“Together, we were resolute in upholding our autonomy, our multiracialism, and our unity.”

Strong mandate

The electoral results also saw a strong vote of trust and confidence in Prime Minister Lawrence Wong and his team, the president said.

He observed that Singaporeans “preferred the strongest team possible to govern Singapore, even as they chose to maintain alternative voices in Parliament”.

"GE2025 has given Singapore a strong and capable government, led by Prime Minister Lawrence Wong. His team is a good balance of experienced leaders and new members — a combination of wisdom, fresh perspectives, and deep resolve," he added.

He noted that the team — including PM Wong himself, during the Covid-19 pandemic — has been "tested in crises", and shown their ability to govern.

Acknowledging the challenges that lie ahead — both in global disorder and domestically, such as an ageing population — President Tharman urged Singaporeans to stand together in solidarity, and for Members of Parliament to remember their “solemn responsibility”.

“You have been elected to serve Singapore and Singaporeans.

Debate in Parliament with conviction, but always with respect. Argue your case vigorously, but never compromise on honesty and integrity. Critique policies robustly, but also offer alternatives for evaluation.

Above all, remember that you share the same ultimate goal: To build a fulfilling and cohesive future for Singaporeans.”

The president added that he has full confidence in the governing team, and “stands ready to work with [the government] to uphold our constitution, and to protect the interests of all Singaporeans”.

“Prime Minister, the people of Singapore have placed their trust in you and your team,” he concluded.

“I wish the very best for you and your government, as you work with Singaporeans to take our nation forward in these turbulent times.”

Top image by Azrizal Abu Che