13-5-2024 (SINGAPORE) As Singapore bids farewell to its outgoing Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, tributes have poured in for the statesman whose 20-year tenure was marked by global crises ranging from the 2008 financial meltdown to the Covid-19 pandemic. President Tharman Shanmugaratnam, in a heartfelt letter to PM Lee on May 13, commended his leadership, which instilled confidence in Singaporeans and steered the nation through turbulent times, emerging stronger and more resilient.
The 72-year-old PM Lee’s decision to resign on May 15 paves the way for a new chapter in Singapore’s history, with Tharman expressing confidence in the incoming leadership under Lawrence Wong. “Your experience and advice will, I am sure, benefit the new leadership team as they chart the new phase of our history and make an even better Singapore,” the President wrote, acknowledging Lee’s intended appointment as senior minister.
In accordance with Article 25 of the Constitution, Tharman intends to appoint Wong as the next prime minister on May 15 and invite him to form the new government, noting that Wong “commands the confidence of the majority of the Members of Parliament.”
In his letter to the President, Lee reflected on his original plan to hand over the reins by the time he turned 70 in 2022, a timeline disrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic. However, with the ruling People’s Action Party’s unanimous endorsement of Wong as his successor in April 2022, Lee expressed confidence in the transition, stating, “Now, two years on, he is ready to lead Singapore.”
Tharman paid tribute to Lee’s four decades of selfless service, including his transformative 20-year tenure as prime minister. He acknowledged Lee’s role in advancing a vibrant and diversified economy, opening new opportunities for Singaporeans, and strengthening social safety nets. Additionally, Tharman lauded the outgoing PM’s efforts in transforming Singapore’s living environment and setting the country on a path towards climate sustainability.
“You have earned Singapore a unique standing in the world, with a voice of reason and a principled commitment to the international rule of law and the global good,” Tharman wrote, praising Lee’s approach to governance, which accepted differences, bridged divides, and strengthened common ground, fostering an open yet cohesive society.
Moreover, Tharman commended Lee’s mentorship of the next generation of leaders and his commitment to ensuring a smooth and orderly transition of political leadership. “Your sense of duty and integrity, wisdom and compassion have set a high standard, and will inspire those who follow,” he added.
