2-9-2023 (SINGAPORE) Singapore’s Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong has extended his congratulations to Tharman Shanmugaratnam on his election as the country’s ninth President, after winning the poll with an impressive majority of 70.4 percent of the vote.
In an early Saturday statement, Mr. Lee acknowledged Mr. Tharman’s extensive and distinguished record of public service. He expressed full confidence in Mr. Tharman’s ability to fulfill his duties as President with distinction. Mr. Lee personally called Mr. Tharman to assure him of the government’s complete cooperation.
“Mr. Tharman has also expressed his intention to work closely with the government,” Mr. Lee stated.
As head of state, Mr. Tharman will represent Singapore both domestically and internationally, in addition to exercising custodial powers over the country’s reserves and key appointments.
“The President must be a unifying figure whom all Singaporeans can respect and identify with. He must exercise his custodial powers wisely, drawing on his experience and independent judgment,” Mr. Lee emphasized. “Internationally, as Singapore’s representative, he must uphold the nation’s reputation.”
Mr. Lee expressed gratitude to all three candidates – Mr. Tharman, Mr. Ng Kok Song, and Mr. Tan Kin Lian – for their participation in the poll, which marked Singapore’s first contested Presidential Election in 12 years.
“I am pleased that Singaporeans have had the opportunity to exercise their right to vote for our next President and to focus on the role of the elected President,” Mr. Lee remarked. “In this election, both voters and candidates have demonstrated a greater understanding of the President’s roles and duties, which bodes well for Singapore.”
The Prime Minister also extended his appreciation to the election officials for their hard work, as well as to voters in Singapore and overseas for fulfilling their civic duty.
“Now that the election is concluded, let us once again come together as Singaporeans to confront the challenges ahead and build a stronger and more united nation,” concluded the Prime Minister.
