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Former GE2025 Independent Candidates Seek NMP Positions in Parliament

 



Two independent candidates from Singapore's 2025 General Election have formally submitted applications to become Nominated Members of Parliament, seeking to contribute to national policy discussions through the alternative representation pathway. Former Radin Mas constituency candidate Darryl Lo confirmed on October 29th that he had completed his nomination submission, while Mountbatten SMC contender Jeremy Tan indicated his intention to file application documents before the November 6th deadline.

The nomination process for NMP positions commenced on October 8th, with all applications being reviewed by an eight-member Special Select Committee chaired by Speaker of Parliament Seah Kian Peng. According to parliamentary requirements, NMP candidates must be Singapore citizens aged at least 21 years, registered in the Register of Electors, and must have resided in Singapore for at least ten years prior to nomination while demonstrating sufficient language proficiency to participate in parliamentary proceedings.

Both candidates gained recognition during the July 2025 general elections, with Lo achieving a notable 23.52% vote share in a three-cornered contest for Radin Mas SMC, finishing second behind People's Action Party candidate Melvin Yong. Similarly, Tan secured 36.18% of votes in Mountbatten SMC against PAP newcomer Gho Sze Kee, demonstrating significant public support despite their independent status.

In an interview, Lo characterized the NMP role as "a different ball game" from elected parliamentary positions, noting that while NMPs don't manage town council responsibilities, they maintain the capacity to debate and influence national policy development. He emphasized his motivation to ensure youth perspectives receive representation in legislative discussions and to advocate for policy changes benefiting Singapore citizens. Lo's application included a proposer, seconder, and six assentors, all comprising young voters above the minimum voting age.

The former Radin Mas candidate referenced recent controversies within the NMP scheme, specifically noting the unprecedented early resignations of former NMPs Raj Joshua Thomas and Syed Harun Alhabsyi, with the latter subsequently joining PAP and entering Parliament through Nee Soon GRC. Lo expressed hope that the Special Select Committee would "bring back trust to the NMP scheme" through their selection process.

Tan highlighted the NMP scheme's significance as an avenue for independent voices to contribute to national discourse, noting that his GE2025 campaign experience provided valuable learning opportunities from former NMPs and various civic organizations. He expressed intention to leverage these insights within parliamentary proceedings for Singapore's future development.

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