Think Centre congratulates the People's Action Party (PAP) and the Prime Minister for the "strong mandate" it received in the 11th Singapore general elections (GE).
At GE2006, Singaporeans returned the PAP to government based on its track record and manifesto to move everyone ahead.
As professed by the PAP government, the next 5 years will be one of "staying together, moving ahead" for Singaporeans. In light of the brave political choice of certain constituencies to continue carrying the Opposition, Think Centre urges the Prime Minister-elect to move beyond electoral promises of carrot-and-stick and not leave the Opposition-wards of Potong Pasir and Hougang behind.
Think Centre expresses its support and solidarity with the constituents of Potong Pasir, Hougang and all who voted for the Opposition, in upholding the need for political plurality and competition in Singapore's guided democracy.
Think Centre is disappointed by divisive comments by Minister Mah Bow Tan that the 2 opposition wards would remain at the bottom of prority list for estate upgrading. This is contrary to the spirit of Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong's thank-you message where he acknowledged the "strong mandate" of 66.6% in national support from 84 constituencies and "respected the decision" of voters in Potong Pasir and Hougang.
As self-proclaimed first-world government, PAP should rise above electoral politics of carrot-and-stick and keep its promise to ALL Singaporeans of "staying together, moving ahead" for more "peace and prosperity". Be gracious and don't leave some behind.
Sources and Relevant Links:
Think Centre GE2006: Renewal, Invigoration and Hope 8 May 2006
Think Centre General Elections 2006 28 April 2006 And so after having waited with abated breath, General Elections (GE)2006 finally kicked off yesterday.The ruling party had walkovers in 37 out of 84 constituencies. The PAP was denied, for the first times since 1988, its return to power on nomination day,Thursday, 27 April 2006
Think Centre Editorial GE 200621 April 2006 In its continuing GE 2006 editorial series, Think Centre (TC) looks at another determinant that may boost or capitulate the Opposition's electoral chances - the media.
Think Centre General Elections (GE) 2006 15 April 2006 As part of its coverage of General Elections (GE) 2006, Think Centre moves into gear with week-by-week editorials on potential issues that matter to the Opposition
Think Centre Is the national election free and fair in Singapore?
