Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has announced his resignation after leading the country for two decades. He will step down on May 15 and hand power to his deputy, Lawrence Wong. Lee has emphasized the significance of this leadership transition and urged Singaporeans to support Wong and his team. Wong, who currently serves as the deputy prime minister and finance minister, has the unanimous support of lawmakers in the ruling People’s Action Party and will be sworn in as the new prime minister on the same day as Lee’s resignation.
Lee had originally planned to retire before turning 70 but postponed his plans due to the COVID-19 pandemic. He announced his retirement last November and has already named Wong as his designated successor. Lee stated that there is no reason to delay the political transition, and passing the baton to Wong before the upcoming national elections will allow him to win his own mandate and lead the country forward. Wong, who played a key role in coordinating Singapore’s fight against COVID-19, will be the city-state’s fourth leader since gaining independence in 1965.
The People’s Action Party, one of the world’s longest-serving parties, retained its super majority in the 2020 general elections with 83 out of 93 parliamentary seats. However, it was the party’s worst performance as they lost some seats and support slipped. Lee is the eldest son of Lee Kuan Yew, Singapore’s first prime minister who transformed the country into one of the world’s richest nations during his 31-year tenure. Despite its economic success, Singapore has been criticized for its tight government control, media censorship, and use of oppressive laws and civil lawsuits against dissidents.
In his announcement, Lee called for all Singaporeans to support Lawrence Wong and his team, emphasizing their efforts to gain the people’s trust during the pandemic. He expressed confidence in Wong’s ability to lead Singapore and create a brighter future for the country. After serving as prime minister and head of the People’s Action Party since August 2004, Lee’s resignation marks a significant moment in Singapore’s political landscape. Wong’s swearing-in as the new prime minister will officially mark the start of a new era in Singapore’s governance.
Lee’s decision to step down and pass the leadership to Wong reflects a smooth and planned transition of power within the ruling party. As Singapore prepares for a new chapter under Wong’s leadership, the country will have the opportunity to continue its development and growth. Despite criticisms of the government’s control and restrictions on freedoms, Singapore remains a prosperous and stable nation under the guidance of its leaders. With Wong’s leadership and the support of Singaporeans, the city-state looks forward to a promising future as it navigates the challenges and opportunities ahead.
