On April 24, 2025, Prime Minister Lawrence Wong delivered his first rally speech as head of government and secretary-general of the People’s Action Party (PAP) at Woodlands Stadium in Marsiling-Yew Tee GRC. The rally marked the second day of the campaign period for Singapore’s General Election.
In his speech, PM Wong urged all political parties, especially the opposition, not to exploit sensitive issues or use domestic politics to divide Singaporeans. Emphasising the importance of unity, he said that regardless of differing opinions, “we are all Singaporeans first and foremost.”
PM Wong highlighted how external global issues—such as the war in Europe and the conflict in Gaza—can easily inflame emotions and influence local sentiments, especially during an election period. While such matters can usually be discussed constructively, he cautioned that in the heat of a campaign, they might be weaponised to stir division. He warned that this could weaken the country from within, stressing that all parties must uphold multiracial harmony and avoid inflaming racial or religious sensitivities.
He reiterated that Singapore’s national interests, sovereignty, and security must remain above politics, and political debate should stop “at the water’s edge.” This principle, he explained, ensures the country remains resilient against foreign influence and internal discord.
Senior Minister of State for Defence and Manpower Zaqy Mohamad, who is also contesting in Marsiling-Yew Tee GRC, echoed similar sentiments earlier in the rally. He pointed to how politics has divided societies across the world over issues such as LGBT rights, abortion, and the Israel-Palestine conflict. Mr Zaqy emphasised that while everyone has personal beliefs and even grievances, these should not be used to sow discord. Politicians must prioritise national unity over personal or partisan gain.
PM Wong also addressed voter expectations and urged Singaporeans to apply equal standards when evaluating all political candidates, whether from the PAP or the opposition. “Yes, look at the PAP candidates carefully. But don’t give the opposition a free pass,” he said. He asked voters to assess all candidates based on integrity, competence, and their readiness to serve.
He acknowledged the growing presence of the opposition, pointing out that the Workers’ Party (WP) is retaining its current Members of Parliament in their wards while deploying new candidates in other areas to expand its influence. Red Dot United is fielding 15 candidates, the second-largest slate among opposition parties after the WP’s 26. Other parties such as the Progress Singapore Party, Singapore Democratic Party, and National Solidarity Party are also contesting at least 10 seats each.
PM Wong said that the PAP does not take victory for granted, adding that he expects this election to be a tough fight.
Reflecting on PAP’s internal renewal, PM Wong thanked veteran MPs who are stepping down, including Senior Minister Teo Chee Hean, Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat, and Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen. He expressed that, while he personally wished for them to continue, he had to think about Singapore’s long-term future and leadership renewal.
He spoke about the new faces being fielded by the PAP, noting that many are individuals he worked closely with during the Covid-19 crisis. This includes former Chief of Army David Neo, who coordinated pandemic operations across government agencies, and Dinesh Vasu Dash, former chief executive of the Agency for Integrated Care.
PM Wong concluded his speech by calling on Singaporeans to choose candidates of character and dedication, who can be trusted to serve the people, their constituencies, and the nation during increasingly uncertain global times. He reminded voters that after the election, the focus must not be on party rivalry but on Singapore’s collective ability to navigate a challenging world together.
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