Singapore’s Ruling Party Set for Another Landslide as Lawrence Wong Passes First Electoral Test

Report By Safarti Tarjuman International Desk

Singapore’s People’s Action Party (PAP) is poised for another landslide victory in the country’s general elections, according to preliminary results released by the Election Department on Saturday.

The ruling PAP, in power since 1959, showed strong leads in 82 out of 93 constituencies, with 5 seats already secured earlier in the day. The opposition Workers’ Party is projected to retain its 10 existing seats, maintaining its role as the main parliamentary opposition.

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, facing his first electoral test since taking office in 2024, is expected to solidify his leadership with the overwhelming results. Supporters of PAP gathered at a stadium waving party flags and holding portraits of Wong, celebrating early leads.

Wong, a 52-year-old US-trained economist, succeeded Lee Hsien Loong last year, becoming Singapore’s fourth prime minister. Lee, who stepped down after 20 years in office, remains in the cabinet as a senior minister. His departure marks the end of the Lee family dynasty that began with founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew.

Wong also serves as finance minister and has pledged to guide Singapore through rising global economic uncertainties. His leadership comes amid fears of a possible recession, triggered by US President Donald Trump’s recent tariff increases. The Singaporean government has since revised its trade forecasts downward.

Despite the projected victory, the PAP faces increasing domestic challenges. Singaporeans, especially younger voters, have voiced concerns over income inequality, rising living costs, housing affordability, and limits on free speech.

The party’s share of the popular vote dropped to 61% in the 2020 elections, a near-record low compared to the 70% it secured in 2015. Critics argue that more opposition voices in parliament are needed for a balanced political system, though opposition parties continue to struggle with limited resources and fragmented support.