SINGAPORE: The election of Mr. Tharman Shanmugaratnam, former senior minister of the People’s Action Party, as Singapore’s ninth president has garnered widespread accolades from the leaders of the Progress Singapore Party (PSP).
In a triumphant moment that will be etched in the annals of Singapore’s history, Mr Tharman’s election showcased an impressive win with 70.40% of the votes, as announced by the Election Department (ELD).
Of the total 2,480,760 votes cast by citizens, 1,746,427 were in his favour.
Mr Tharman’s fellow contenders, Mr Ng Kok Song, the former GIC investment chief, received 15.72% (390,041 votes), while Mr Tan Kin Lian, the former NTUC Income chief, secured 13.88 % (344,292 votes).
This announcement came in the early hours of Saturday (2 Sept) by Returning Officer Tan Meng Dui, CEO of the Housing Board.
In response to this, Leong Mun Wai, Secretary-General of the PSP, penned a heartfelt note on Sunday, lauding the new President-elect. “RESPECT FOR ALL, A NEW CHAPTER FOR SINGAPORE. The PSP offers its hearty congratulations to President-elect Tharman Shanmugaratnam.”
“We echo his sentiment of “Respect for all,” and applaud Singaporeans for their discerning vote against racial biases. It is evident that the race-based GRC system and Reserved Presidency no longer resonate with our society. Singaporeans deserve progressive leadership. For Country. For People.”
Dr Tan Cheng Bock, the PSP Chairman who had endorsed Mr Tan Kin Lian during the Presidential Election in his personal capacity, shared a gracious note, “PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION 2023: My warm congratulations to President-elect Tharman Shanmugaratnam on this significant win.”
“His campaign, rooted in ‘Respect For All’, has clearly found its mark with the electorate. Kudos to candidates Tan Kin Lian and Ng Kok Song for their brave stance. Now, as we step into a new era, the presidential mantle rightfully belongs to a man of Tharman Shanmugaratnam’s integrity and capability. Wishing him unparalleled success as our 9th elected President.”
Lee Hsien Yang, esteemed PSP member and son of the late Lee Kuan Yew, conveyed his wishes, stating, “Hearty congratulations to President-elect Tharman Shanmugaratnam. His representation on the global stage will undoubtedly enhance Singapore’s stature. At home, I trust he will uphold his vow to be an independent voice, placing truth and the nation’s best interest at the forefront. All the best for his term.”
As the nation prepares for this new leadership chapter, the term of the incumbent President, Halimah Yacob, is set to culminate on 13 September 2023.