Singapore's General Election Set for May 3rd
Singapore is heading to the polls on May 3rd amidst global uncertainty, according to Prime Minister Lawrence Wong. He advised President Tharman Shanmugaratnam to dissolve parliament and issue the writ of election. Wong emphasized the need for Singaporeans to choose a team to lead the nation during this critical time. Nomination day is scheduled for April 23rd, followed by nine days of campaigning. A cooling-off day will precede the polling day, which is also a public holiday.
Political Parties React to Election Announcement
Opposition parties have begun gearing up for the election, posting on social media and raising questions about the timeline. Several parties have released statements outlining their goals and strategies:
- The Workers Party emphasizes its commitment to representing a diverse Singaporean population and working towards a first-world parliament. Their new catchphrase is "working for Singapore".
- The Progress Singapore Party highlighted its contributions in parliament over the past five years and affirmed its readiness to engage with voters.
- The Singapore Democratic Party criticized the short period between the electoral boundaries report and the dissolution of parliament, calling it a "smash and grab tactic".
- The People's Alliance for Reform stressed the importance of each vote in shaping Singapore's future.
- The Singapore People's Party committed to serving Singaporeans and working towards a more equitable and inclusive nation.
- The Singapore Democratic Alliance called for change and urged Singaporeans to make their votes count.
- Red Dot United called on voters to reflect deeply on the kind of country Singapore wants to become.
- The People's Power Party urged voters not to be swayed by the politics of fear and to protect diverse voices.
Nomination Centers Across Singapore
Nine nomination centers will be established across the island, each covering approximately three to four constituencies. Here's a breakdown of some key nomination sites:
- Jurong Pioneer Junior College: Bukit Gombak SMC, Chua Chu Kang GRC, Marsiling-Yew Tee GRC (where Prime Minister Lawrence Wong is contesting).
- Methodist Girls' School: Bishan-Toa Payoh GRC, Holland-Bukit Timah GRC, Bukit Panjang SMC, Marymount SMC.
- Nan Hua High School: Jurong Central SMC, Pioneer SMC, Jurong East GRC, West Coast GRC.
- Bendemeer Primary School: Queenstown SMC, Radin Mas SMC, Tanjong Pagar GRC.
- Deyi Secondary School: Ang Mo Kio GRC, Jalan Kayu SMC, Kebun Baru SMC, Yio Chu Kang SMC.
- Po Ching School: Aljunied GRC, Sengkang GRC, Hougang SMC, Potong Pasir SMC.
- Kong Hwa School: Jalan Besar GRC, Marine Parade GRC, Mountbatten SMC, Potong Pasir SMC.
- Chongfu School: Nee Soon GRC, Sembawang GRC, Yio Chu Kang SMC.
- Yusof Ishak Secondary School: East Coast GRC, Pasir Ris-Punggol GRC, Sengkang GRC.
Nomination Day Procedures and Requirements
Nomination Day marks the start of the race to the ballot box and determines who can stand for election. Sabrina detailed the procedures and requirements for potential candidates.
Required Forms and Certificates
Prospective candidates must submit various forms and certificates, now accessible online through the Elections Department website:
- Nomination Paper: Includes names and NRIC numbers of candidates, proposers, seconders, assenters, and the constituency they intend to contest.
- Minority Candidate Certificate: Required for minority candidates contesting in a GRC.
Election Deposit
A $13,500 Singapore election deposit is required. This deposit, the same as in 2020, can be paid online before noon on nomination day. The deposit will be forfeited if a candidate receives less than 1/8 of the votes.
Political Donation Certificate
Candidates must apply for a political donation certificate, reporting donations of $10,000 or more from a single donor in a calendar year. Anonymous donations exceeding $5,000 are prohibited to prevent foreign interference.
Other Requirements
Additional application details include appointing an election agent, disclosing foreign affiliations, and submitting a photograph for the ballot paper. All nomination papers must be submitted in person to the returning officer between 11:00 a.m. and noon on nomination day. Late or incomplete submissions will not be accepted. Objections to nominations can be raised from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. based on candidate suitability or improper filing.
Campaigning and New Regulations
The nine-day campaign period begins immediately after nominations close on April 23rd and ends on May 2nd, the cooling-off day.
Restrictions on Deep Fakes and Election Advertising
New laws prohibit the use of deep fakes of candidates during the election period. The publication of digitally generated or manipulated online election advertising content that misrepresents a candidate’s speech or actions is now prohibited. Restrictions also apply to new banners, flags, and posters displayed before the campaign period.
Walkabouts and Foreign Interference
The Elections Department (ELD) states that walkabouts and house visits for meeting residents do not require a permit but cannot explicitly demonstrate support for or opposition to particular persons or ideas. Candidates must also be vigilant against foreign interference. Only Singapore citizens can participate in elections and campaigning, and candidates are prohibited from soliciting foreign support.
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