TR EMERITUS

In recent weeks, the political buzz in Singapore has reached a new high. Massive crowds at opposition rallies, vibrant speeches, and social media excitement have led many to believe that change is finally at the doorstep. Some are even speculating that the ruling party could lose key ministers—or worse, the mandate to govern altogether.

But before we jump to conclusions, Singaporeans must take a step back and examine our electoral history with clarity and calm. We’ve seen this before. In past elections, large turnouts at opposition events stirred headlines and hopes, but when the ballots were counted, the ruling party returned with a strong majority. The perceived groundswell of support, while real in emotion, hasn’t always translated into votes.

This doesn’t mean that all is well. Far from it.

The recent government-linked Alliance-NTUC controversy has exposed worrying cracks in the system—conflict of interest, lack of transparency, and questions about accountability. These are not isolated incidents. They are symptoms of a larger problem: a political system dominated for decades by a single party, whose high salaries have not insulated them from misjudgments and missteps.

And what about the daily struggles of ordinary Singaporeans? Soaring cost of living, overcrowded public transport, the pressure of healthcare costs, and an education system that still leaves many behind. Affordable housing feels increasingly out of reach for younger Singaporeans, and the sense of inequality is growing.

The question, then, is not whether the opposition can draw a crowd. It is whether Singaporeans will continue to put blind faith in a dominant party system that has, of late, shown signs of fatigue and complacency.

At this critical juncture, voters must ask themselves: What kind of future do we want? Do we reward a system that continues to stumble, or do we take a bold but responsible step forward—towards a more balanced Parliament with a diversity of voices?

The opposition parties in Singapore are not perfect. But they have worked tirelessly against immense odds. With limited resources, little media access, and structural disadvantages, they have still managed to connect with the ground, speak up in Parliament, and champion issues that matter.

It is time we gave them more than just applause at rallies. It is time we gave them a chance to serve—not just for their sake, but for Singapore’s future. A more balanced, accountable, and transparent political landscape can only strengthen our nation.

So when you stand before the ballot box, remember: this is not just about politics. It is about your life, your children's future, and the kind of Singapore you want to live in.

Will you give them the chance to serve you, to serve Singapore?

CWC-AI