5-11-2023 (SINGAPORE) On the 5th of November 2023, during the People’s Action Party (PAP) Awards and Convention 2023, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong made a significant announcement that will reshape the political landscape of Singapore. He declared his intention to hand over the reins of leadership to Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong before the upcoming General Elections (GE), which are slated to occur no later than November 23, 2025.
Prime Minister Lee’s confidence in Wong’s readiness was evident when he stated, “Lawrence has told me that he is ready.” He further emphasized his trust in Wong and his team, stating, “there is no reason to delay the political transition.”
PM Lee serves as the Secretary-General of the PAP, while Wong holds the position of Deputy Secretary-General. The move towards leadership renewal is deemed crucial for both the PAP and the nation of Singapore.
Addressing the PAP Convention attendees, PM Lee highlighted the pressing need for an “outstanding ‘First Team’ of leaders who, in addition to mastering politics, can also deliver effective governance for Singapore.” He underscored the role of good political leadership in shaping Singapore’s exemplary civil service, emphasizing that “Civil servants can only deliver good results if they are led by competent ministers who understand the issues, make sound decisions, and command their respect.”
PM Lee drew upon the example of the COVID-19 pandemic to illustrate the importance of political leadership. He commended the ministries and agencies for their exceptional performance but pointed out that without competent ministers making crucial decisions and providing national leadership, the nation would not have weathered the crisis as successfully as it did.
The upcoming General Elections are set to coincide with the transition to the 4G team. PM Lee affirmed that his succession plans are firmly back on track, with PAP Members of Parliament endorsing Wong as their leader. The only decision left to make is the timing of the handover.
PM Lee contemplated two options: leading the party into the next GE, his fifth as Prime Minister, and then passing the baton to Lawrence, or transferring leadership to Wong before the GE, allowing him to lead the party during the campaign and secure his own mandate.
Having thoroughly discussed these options with Lawrence and the 3G and 4G ministers, PM Lee stated, “I intend to hand over to DPM Lawrence before the next General Elections.” If all goes well, he aims to complete the leadership transition by the PAP’s 70th birthday, which falls on November 21, 2024.
Following the handover, PM Lee pledged to be at the disposal of the new Prime Minister, offering his support and assistance to ensure a successful transition and the fulfillment of responsibilities. He expressed his commitment to help lead the country to continued success for years to come.
Deputy Prime Minister Lawrence Wong also addressed the audience, revealing his extensive preparations for the leadership transition. He mentioned his busy schedule in the past year, where he focused on assisting Singaporeans in coping with the rising cost of living, expanding his expertise in foreign policy, defense, and security matters, and taking on additional responsibilities within the PAP.
Wong acknowledged the time-sensitive nature of the transition, noting that “the runway is short and getting shorter with each passing day.” He assured that he has been diligently preparing to receive the leadership baton from PM Lee.
