SINGAPORE — In a display of enduring political dominance, Singapore’s People’s Action Party (PAP) secured another landslide victory in the recent general elections, maintaining its 66-year unbroken reign. This win marks a significant triumph for Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, who assumed leadership a year ago and will continue to guide the nation.
The Election Department declared that after the final count, PAP emerged victorious with 82 of the contested Parliamentary seats. Including the five seats acquired uncontested, the party now holds 87 out of 97 seats in total, while the opposition Workers Party has retained its 10 seats. PAP’s share of the popular vote increased to 65.6% from 2020’s near-record low of 61%.
Celebrating their victory, PAP supporters gathered, waving flags and cheering in stadiums across Singapore. Wong, a U.S.-trained economist and current finance minister, successfully connected with voters through his campaign focused on guiding Singapore through economic challenges amidst global tensions, particularly in light of the tariffs imposed by the U.S.
Prime Minister Wong, aged 52, expressed his humble gratitude for the PAP’s reinforced mandate. Acknowledging the public’s preference for diverse voices in the government, he emphasized the need for a robust PAP team to navigate the nation’s future challenges. “This result places Singapore in a stronger position in this unpredictable world,” Wong commented.
Eugene Tan, a law professor from Singapore Management University, remarked on the unexpected stagnation in the opposition’s progress since 2020. “Singaporeans have shown they trust a party with a proven track record,” he noted. Wong succeeded Lee Hsien Loong, becoming Singapore’s fourth leader after Lee stepped down in May 2024, concluding a historic family leadership beginning with his father, Lee Kuan Yew.
The PAP is often viewed as a pillar of stability and prosperity in Singapore, although issues such as high living costs, housing affordability, and restrictions on free speech have stirred dissatisfaction, especially among younger citizens. The opposition argues for a larger parliamentary presence to foster a balanced political system, though it struggles with resource limitations and fragmented support.
Pritam Singh, leader of the Workers Party, acknowledged the electoral challenges and promised continued dedication to achieving a balanced Parliament. “The work starts anew, and we shall persist,” Singh stated.
In response to the election outcome, the United States extended its congratulations to Singapore and Wong. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio noted the long-standing partnership between the two nations. He expressed eagerness to collaborate with the newly elected government to bolster economic growth and defense ties within the region.
Despite the Workers Party maintaining its status, it did manage to strengthen its voter base in specific areas, noted Bridget Welsh, a political analyst specializing in Southeast Asia. No significant gains were made by smaller opposition groups. According to Welsh, Wong’s voter engagement strategy, particularly with younger demographics and introducing fresh faces to the PAP, was instrumental in the party’s success.
“Economic uncertainty has ultimately reinforced Wong’s legitimacy and mandate,” Welsh observed, pointing to both Wong’s appeal and the global economic climate as pivotal factors in the PAP’s convincing victory.