15-4-2024 (SINGAPORE) As Lawrence Wong prepares to step into the role of Singapore’s fourth Prime Minister on May 15, speculation arises regarding the formation of a new Cabinet to accompany his inauguration.
Political observers suggest that a Cabinet reshuffle might precede Wong’s official appointment, a practice observed in previous leadership transitions. Inderjit Singh, a former Member of Parliament and political observer, recalls instances where new Cabinets were announced ahead of Prime Ministerial transitions in 1990 and 2004.
Singh anticipates that the Cabinet reshuffle could coincide with or precede Wong’s ascension to the Prime Ministership. This sentiment is echoed by Assistant Professor Elvin Ong from the National University of Singapore’s Department of Political Science, who anticipates the swearing-in of the entire Cabinet alongside Wong on May 15.
With Lawrence Wong set to assume the Prime Ministership, political analysts speculate on potential candidates to replace him as Deputy Prime Minister. Among the suggested names are Law and Home Affairs Minister K Shanmugam, Education Minister Chan Chun Sing, and Health Minister Ong Ye Kung.
Dr. Leong Chan-Hoong, a senior fellow at the S Rajaratnam School of International Studies at Nanyang Technological University, suggests that current Deputy Prime Minister Heng Swee Keat may retain his position, particularly overseeing economic development.
Defense plays a pivotal role in Singapore’s leadership, leading observers to consider candidates with defense experience. Independent political observer Felix Tan proposes Chan as a potential candidate, given his military background.
Assistant Professor Ong suggests discussions about Shanmugam taking on a Deputy Prime Minister role, possibly overseeing security, owing to his extensive experience and ties to both the 3G and 4G leadership.
As for the outgoing Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, analysts anticipate his continued presence in the Cabinet, possibly in a mentorship or advisory capacity. Singh suggests a role akin to Minister Mentor, akin to the roles played by previous leaders during transitions.
Founding Prime Minister Lee Kuan Yew’s transition to Senior Minister in 1990 and subsequently as Minister Mentor in 2004 serves as a precedent. Gillian Koh, a senior fellow at the Institute of Policy Studies, foresees Lee’s role evolving into Senior Minister, leveraging his extensive regional and global networks for Singapore’s benefit.
Amidst geopolitical uncertainties, analysts emphasize the importance of Lee’s guidance for the new leadership team. His experience and expertise would be invaluable in navigating complex challenges, ensuring continuity, and providing stability for Singapore’s future.
