Stakes high in next GE: PAP will refresh to win the mandate needed to govern: Lawrence Wong

A call to action for all PAP activists! The PAP must come out in front “to explain our policies, to mobilise citizens for the causes that we believe in”, says Deputy Secretary-General (DSG) Wong.

The stakes in the upcoming General Election are high, Lawrence Wong, Deputy Secretary-General of the People’s Action Party (PAP) cautioned, as Singapore risks losing a stable and good government.

“Please don’t think it is guaranteed that the PAP will win and form a stable government,” he said on 24 November to some 3,000 PAP cadres, activists and guests at the PAP’s landmark 70th anniversary celebrations and twoday biennial Awards and Conference.

“We have to work hard for every vote. We all have to chip in, do our part to earn the confidence and trust of Singaporeans, to win the mandate to govern, and ultimately, to serve our fellow Singaporeans,” added DSG Wong.

A “modest swing” in popular votes against the PAP, said DSG Wong, who is also Prime Minister and Minister for Finance, could lead to significantly different electoral outcomes, potentially resulting in the loss of another three or four Group Representation Constituencies (GRCs).

“We will end up with a much weaker government, with far less ability to solve the problems facing our people and our country

This is why the PAP must refresh and update its approach; it can no longer “operate from the back” in a more contested political landscape, he explained.

“We must come out in front — to explain our policies, to mobilise citizens for the causes that we believe in, to engage Singaporeans on the issues they care about, and show them why they can trust and depend on the PAP to provide the leadership for Singapore.”

The Party has taken steps to refresh itself, engaging with climate action and mental health, which are two emerging issues important for the wellbeing of Singaporeans.

Forming the best team for Singapore

Turning to leadership renewal, DSG Wong said his priority is to form the best team for Singapore.

“The PAP won the mandate in the last 15 elections because each time we delivered on what we promised, and Singaporeans were convinced that we had the best team,” he said.

DSG Wong highlighted that over half of the current Cabinet’s 19 ministers are aged 60 or above.

This is why it is “so urgent” to find a fresh crop of younger

He has made progress in recruiting potential office-holders, but hopes to persuade a few more to join the team.

DSG Wong also called upon party activists to support these candidates and persuade fellow Singaporeans to vote for them in the next GE.

“We cannot afford to leave this to chance,” he said. “Our future and our nation’s future depend critically on our ability to find good people to serve in politics.”

“Even as we seek your support, the PAP will always be your biggest supporter.”

DSG Wong also pledged to give his all for Singaporeans.

“I give you my word: whatever lies ahead, I will do everything I can under my watch to win the support and trust of Singaporeans,” he said.

At the same time, DSG Wong also made the PAP’s stance clear.

“We will fight to win the hearts and minds of our fellow citizens and earn their support and trust through our actions. For we are the People’s Action Party. We will always be a people’s party; a party of action; a party that builds a better Singapore, with Singaporeans, for all Singaporeans.”

“To all Singaporeans, I say: Even as we seek your support, the PAP will always be your biggest supporter,” continued DSG Wong. “We will always be here for you. Your dreams will inspire our actions.”