Singapore’s ruling People’s Action Party (PAP) has won a resounding victory in the nation’s general election, securing 87 out of 97 seats in parliament and 65.57% of the vote. The result hands Prime Minister Lawrence Wong a decisive mandate to steer the trade-dependent city-state through looming global economic challenges, including potential U.S. tariffs.
“This is a clear signal of trust, stability, and confidence in your government,” Wong said at a press conference following the announcement of official results. “Singaporeans gave the PAP a strong mandate to govern. The results will put Singapore in a better position to face this turbulent world.”
This election marked Wong’s first major political test since taking over from former Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong in 2024. Wong, who rose to popularity as the head of Singapore’s COVID-19 task force, emphasized the need for political stability in the face of global uncertainty, particularly with renewed tariff threats from U.S. President Donald Trump.
Despite facing a rejuvenated opposition, including the increasingly sophisticated Workers’ Party (WP), the PAP increased its dominance compared to the 2020 elections. While the WP attracted large crowds and fielded a slate of charismatic candidates, it retained only the 10 seats it previously held.
Political commentator P.N. Balji attributed the PAP’s success to intensive campaigning and voters’ concerns over economic risks. “The fear of Trump’s tariffs must have worried voters,” Balji told AFP.
At a celebratory rally, PAP supporters—many dressed in the party’s traditional white—waved flags bearing the party’s red lightning bolt emblem. “The PAP is reliable,” said Arham, an 18-year-old student. “Most of the time, things have been going smoothly.”
However, the election came amid several controversies involving the ruling party. Former transport minister S. Iswaran was jailed for corruption, while the former Speaker of Parliament and another lawmaker resigned over an “inappropriate” relationship. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has been embroiled in a public feud with his brother Lee Hsien Yang, who supports the opposition and has sought asylum in the UK.
Despite these issues and rising interest among younger voters in alternative parties, the PAP’s continued dominance underscores Singapore’s longstanding political status quo.
