Singapore to hold general election on 3 May

🇸🇬 Singapore Gears Up for General Elections on May 3 Under New PM Lawrence Wong

Singaporeans will head to the voting booths on May 3, marking the first national election under Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, who succeeded long-time leader Lee Hsien Loong just last year.

The short nine-day campaign is expected to center around everyday concerns: rising living costs, affordable housing, job opportunities, and expanding healthcare for a rapidly ageing population.

🗳️ Polls Forecast Continued Dominance for PAP

Despite recent political bumps, the ruling People’s Action Party (PAP) is projected to maintain its hold on power — a streak it has kept since 1959, even before Singapore’s independence in 1965.

In 2020, the opposition Workers’ Party made history, winning 10 seats — its strongest performance yet. This time, 97 parliamentary seats are being contested. In the last election, PAP secured 83 out of 93 seats, though the result was seen as a dip in popularity.

📊 Voter Sentiments & Challenges Ahead

According to a YouGov survey reported by Reuters, 44% of Singaporeans have already decided whom they’ll support. Among them, 63% back PAP, while 15% support the Workers’ Party.

This vote is being closely watched as a litmus test for Lawrence Wong’s leadership, especially after his “feel-good” budget in February, which offered rebates, cash support, and industry aid to help ease financial pressures.

🏛️ Political Legacy & System Explained

Singapore has only seen four prime ministers since independence — all from the PAP. The country’s founding father, Lee Kuan Yew, led for 25 years, building the island-state into a global financial hub.

But the PAP hasn’t been without controversy. The 2020 term saw corruption allegations and scandals involving lawmakers, slightly shaking public trust.

Voting is mandatory for over 2.75 million eligible citizens, using a first-past-the-post system similar to the UK’s — with a twist.

Large districts, known as Group Representative Constituencies (GRCs), are contested by teams of candidates, ensuring minority representation but also making it tougher for smaller opposition parties to compete due to limited resources.

Candidates must also pay a S$13,500 deposit, refundable only if they secure at least 12.5% of votes. Opposition parties have often accused the government of unfair redistricting, though officials deny any manipulation.

🏷️ Tags:

Singapore elections, Lawrence Wong, PAP, Workers’ Party, Singapore politics 2025, cost of living Singapore, GRC system, opposition politics, Southeast Asia news, voting in Singapore

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