Singapore election campaign begins

[SINGAPORE] Singapore’s 2025 general election campaign officially commenced today with Nomination Day proceedings, as political parties submitted their candidate lists and finalized their contesting constituencies. The ruling People’s Action Party (PAP) and the opposition Workers’ Party (WP) are set for a closely watched contest, with strategic redeployments and high-profile matchups shaping the electoral landscape.​

Key Developments on Nomination Day

PAP’s Strategic Candidate Deployments

In a significant move, Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong has been redeployed to contest in Punggol Group Representation Constituency (GRC), where he will face off against WP’s star candidate Harpreet Singh. This shift underscores the PAP’s strategic efforts to strengthen its position in key battlegrounds. ​

Observers note that Punggol GRC has undergone significant demographic changes in recent years, with a growing population of younger, first-time voters. This demographic shift could prove pivotal in the contest, particularly as issues such as cost of living, job security, and housing affordability continue to dominate public discourse. Political analysts suggest that both parties will need to tailor their messaging to resonate with this increasingly influential voting bloc.

Walkover in Marine Parade-Braddell Heights

In an unprecedented development, the PAP has secured a walkover in the Marine Parade-Braddell Heights constituency, marking the first uncontested seat in Singapore since 2011. This outcome reflects the PAP’s stronghold in certain areas and the dynamics of the current electoral contest.​

The lack of opposition presence in Marine Parade-Braddell Heights has raised questions about the strategic decisions made by smaller parties, many of whom have cited resource constraints and the need to concentrate efforts on more competitive wards. Analysts also point to the continued logistical and financial challenges faced by opposition parties in mounting credible campaigns across all constituencies.

Retirements of Senior Ministers

Senior Ministers Heng Swee Keat and Teo Chee Hean have announced their retirement from politics, signaling a generational shift within the PAP leadership. Their departures have prompted the party to introduce new faces and fresh perspectives in the upcoming election.​

In response to these high-profile retirements, the PAP has introduced several younger candidates with professional backgrounds in technology, sustainability, and social services. This reflects a broader trend of political renewal, with the party seeking to project an image of relevance and adaptability amid evolving socio-economic expectations. One such candidate, 35-year-old entrepreneur Rachel Yeo, has drawn attention for her grassroots activism and policy work on climate resilience.

Tampines GRC: A Rare Four-Cornered Contest

The Tampines GRC will witness a rare four-cornered contest, with multiple parties vying for the seat. This development adds an element of unpredictability to the election, as voters face a broader spectrum of choices.​

Tampines GRC has historically leaned towards the PAP, but opposition parties believe shifting ground sentiments may open a window for inroads. The four-cornered battle includes the PAP, WP, the Progress Singapore Party (PSP), and a newcomer—the Democratic Reform Alliance (DRA)—a recently formed party campaigning on transparency and decentralization of public services. While the DRA's chances remain uncertain, its presence signals an appetite among some voters for alternatives to the traditional political duopoly.

Election Context and Implications

Economic Challenges and Leadership Transition

The 2025 general election is taking place amid global economic uncertainties, including U.S. tariffs and a downgraded GDP growth forecast of 0%-2% for Singapore. Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, who succeeded Lee Hsien Loong in May 2024, is leading the PAP into this election, emphasizing the need for stable leadership to navigate these challenges. ​

PAP’s Efforts to Rejuvenate Leadership

To address concerns over governance and public trust, the PAP is fielding over 30 new candidates, aiming to rejuvenate its leadership and appeal to a broader electorate. This move is part of the party’s broader strategy to maintain its dominance in Singapore’s political landscape.​

Meanwhile, civil society groups have also stepped up efforts to influence the political conversation. Organizations such as MARUAH and the Singapore Climate Action Network have launched non-partisan voter education campaigns focused on civic responsibility, human rights, and environmental policy. These initiatives aim to empower citizens to critically assess party platforms and make informed decisions at the ballot box.

Opposition’s Growing Influence

The Workers’ Party, Singapore’s main opposition party, continues to gain influence, particularly among younger voters and in urban constituencies. The PAP’s strategic redeployments and the WP’s strong candidates reflect the increasingly competitive nature of Singapore’s political arena.​

What to Expect in the Coming Weeks

Campaigning Period and Cooling-Off Day

With Nomination Day concluded, the official campaigning period has begun and will continue until May 2, followed by Cooling-Off Day on May 2. Polling Day is scheduled for May 3, 2025, when voters will head to the polls to cast their ballots. ​

Voter Engagement and Participation

Voter turnout is expected to be high, with over 2.4 million eligible voters. The introduction of postal voting for overseas Singaporeans aims to facilitate broader participation. The Elections Department has also increased the number of polling stations to reduce waiting times.​

As Singapore enters the final stretch of its 2025 general election campaign, the political landscape is marked by strategic redeployments, retirements of senior leaders, and a rare four-cornered contest. The outcome of this election will have significant implications for the nation’s leadership and direction in the coming years.​