PM Wong focuses on renewing the People’s Action Party (PAP) to secure the country’s future ahead of the 2025 General Election
Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Lawrence Wong has emphasised the importance of rejuvenating Singapore’s leadership in the upcoming General Election to ensure the People’s Action Party (PAP) remains well-positioned for the next 10 to 15 years. Speaking on March 26, 2025, following his visit to Hanoi, Mr Wong outlined the key priority of renewing the country’s leadership ranks to safeguard Singapore’s future.
“While we could go ahead with the current team and manage for the next five years, the lack of renewal would have long-term consequences,” said Mr Wong. “It might not be immediate, but certainly, in 10 or 15 years, Singapore will feel the effects if we do not act now.”
Over the past one to two years, Mr Wong has made significant efforts to encourage individuals from various sectors, both public and private, to enter politics, ensuring a continuous flow of fresh talent into the PAP.
When questioned about the final slate of candidates for the upcoming election, Mr Wong, also the PAP’s secretary-general, confirmed that some civil servants have expressed interest in joining politics. This follows a series of resignations from senior civil servants, including the departure of Jeffrey Siow, the Second Permanent Secretary for Manpower and Trade and Industry, and former Chief of Army, David Neo.
“Our recruitment efforts are not limited to the public service,” Mr Wong explained. “We are also attracting candidates from the private sector, academia, and various other fields to join us.” The process involves starting with a larger pool of potential candidates, whom the party then evaluates and prepares for future elections. Some may not be ready for the upcoming contest and could be considered for future campaigns.
Mr Wong emphasised that candidates must be committed to serving the public, embody the right values, and enter politics with a genuine desire to contribute to Singapore’s development.
While Mr Wong refrained from commenting on the exact date of the General Election, which must be held by November 23, 2025, he stressed that the election is not just about securing a strong mandate for the PAP, but about addressing the broader challenges facing Singapore in the global context. “We need a strong, united Singapore to navigate the challenges of the future,” he stated.
Entering his first General Election as the PAP leader, Mr Wong acknowledged the immense responsibility on his shoulders. “Singapore faces an increasingly complex global landscape. It is vital that we act decisively to ensure the country’s continued success and survival,” he said.
Mr Wong concluded by reaffirming his commitment to presenting his case to the people of Singapore, outlining the PAP’s achievements and its plans for the future as it prepares to face the challenges ahead.
