News

Singapore, a democratic republic governed by the same party since gaining independence in 1965, is set to vote this Saturday.

The election will be a key test for newly appointed Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, as the long-ruling People’s Action Party looks to maintain its grip on power and win broader public support.

Let's have a closer at the details related to the elections. 

Polling time and result 

The elections will be held on May 3. Voting is mandatory in Singapore, and polling day is a public holiday. Polls will be open from 8 am to 8 pm, with results expected later that night.

On April 15, President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, acting on Prime Minister Lawrence Wong’s advice, dissolved Parliament, officially setting the stage for Singapore’s General Election.

The election kicked off on April 23 with Nomination Day, followed by a stretch of campaign rallies beginning April 24 and running through May 1. May 2 was observed as Cooling-Off Day — a quiet pause from political activity, giving voters time to reflect before casting their ballots.

Process of elections 

Election in Singapore are held in every five years; last elections were held in 2020. Singapore’s electoral system combines single-member wards with multi-member constituencies, where voters choose a team—including at least one minority candidate—instead of individuals.

About 2.76 million registered voters will cast their ballots to elect 97 Members of Parliament, though five seats have already been secured by the PAP uncontested after no opposition candidates were fielded in one GRC.

The election spans 33 constituencies, including 15 single-member wards and 18 group representation constituencies.

Who are the main contenders? 

But this vote carries special weight. It’s the first major test for Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, who stepped in after Lee Hsien Loong’s 20-year run. The PAP is likely to win, but how much ground the opposition gains could hint at bigger changes ahead in Singapore’s political landscape.

In the last election, PAP’s support slipped to 61% from 70% five years earlier. If the Workers’ Party can build on its momentum, it might be a sign that voters are slowly warming up to the idea of more political competition.

While that was a significant step forward, the party continues to grapple with hurdles like limited funding, manpower, and a scattered support base. In this election, the WP is putting forward 26 candidates as it looks to strengthen its presence.

Singh has said that even a clean sweep by his party wouldn’t threaten the PAP but would help create a more balanced and accountable political system. Other opposition parties and independents are contesting the rest of the seats.

Main issues

Opposition parties are challenging the ruling PAP on soaring living expenses and housing constraints — persistent concerns in Singapore, one of the priciest cities globally.

To counter growing discontent, the government introduced relief measures in its February budget, such as grocery vouchers, tax breaks, and cash support. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has also pledged additional assistance if global trade disruptions affect the local economy.

Opposition parties are also pushing for curbs on foreign hires in top jobs and more affordable healthcare for Singapore’s ageing population.

Wong, however, has warned that such "tempting" proposals could strain public finances and deter investment. Despite price hikes and housing woes, the fragmented opposition still faces an uphill battle against the long-dominant PAP.

Discover the latest Business News, Budget 2025 News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!

${res.must_watch_article[0].headline}

Stock Market Holiday Jammu Kashmir News Live Tim Cook Delhi Rain PM Modi on Shashi Tharoor Odisha 10th Result 2025 Ganga Expressway Indian Rupee Hyderabad Water Crisis IPL Points Table 2025

Business Markets Stocks India News City News Economy Mutual Funds Personal Finance IPO News Startups

Home Currencies Commodities Pre-Market IPO Global Market Bonds

Home Loans up to 50 Lakhs Credit Cards Lifetime Free Finance TrackerNew Fixed Deposits Fixed Deposit Comparison Fixed Income

Home MC 30 Top Ranked Funds ETFs Mutual Fund Screener

Income Tax Calculator EMI Calculator Retirement Planning Gratuity Calculator

Stock Markets

News18 Firstpost CNBC TV18 News18 Hindi Cricketnext Overdrive Topper Learning

About Us Contact Us Advisory Alert Advertise with Us SupportDisclaimer Privacy Policy Cookie Policy Terms & Conditions Financial Terms (Glossary) Sitemap Investors

You are already a Moneycontrol Pro user.