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The People's Action Party: A Historical Journey from 1985 to 2024

Fernando Pessoa

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Published in A History Of The People S Action Party 1985 2024

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The People's Action Party (PAP) has been the dominant political force in Singapore since its independence in 1965. Founded in 1954, the PAP has consistently won every general election, except in 1963 when it lost to the Barisan Sosialis. This article provides an in-depth historical account of the PAP from 1985 to 2024, exploring its key leaders, policies, and challenges.

1985-1990: The Goh Chok Tong Era

In 1985, Goh Chok Tong succeeded Lee Kuan Yew as Prime Minister. Under Goh's leadership, the PAP embarked on a period of economic liberalization and social modernization. The party introduced new policies to promote entrepreneurship, attract foreign investment, and increase the standard of living for Singaporeans.

A History of the People’s Action Party, 1985-2024

by William Wheeler

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Language	:	English
File size	:	23512 KB
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Enhanced typesetting	:	Enabled
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Print length	:	1351 pages

One of the most significant developments during this period was the establishment of the "Second Industrial Revolution" in 1986. The PAP recognized the need to move Singapore away from its traditional reliance on manufacturing and towards knowledge-based industries such as electronics, biotechnology, and financial services. This shift in economic strategy proved to be successful, and Singapore experienced strong economic growth during this period.

1990-2004: The Lee Hsien Loong Era

In 1990, Lee Hsien Loong, the son of Lee Kuan Yew, became Prime Minister. Lee Hsien Loong continued the economic policies of his predecessor, but he also introduced new measures to address social issues such as inequality and the rising cost of living.

One of the most controversial policies introduced during this period was the "CPF Medisave" scheme, which required Singaporeans to set aside a portion of their income for healthcare expenses. The scheme was intended to promote financial independence and reduce the burden on the public healthcare system. However, it was also criticized for being too restrictive and for limiting access to healthcare for certain groups.

2004-2011: The Sellapan Ramanathan Era

In 2004, Sellapan Ramanathan, Singapore's first non-Chinese president, was appointed as President of the Republic. During his presidency, Ramanathan played a largely ceremonial role, but he also spoke out on social issues and encouraged Singaporeans to embrace diversity and inclusivity.

The PAP's grip on power was challenged during the 2011 general election, when the opposition Workers' Party made significant gains. The Workers' Party won 6 out of 87 seats in Parliament, a record high for an opposition party in Singapore. The results of the election indicated that the PAP was facing growing dissatisfaction among voters, particularly among the younger generation.

2011-2024: The Lee Hsien Loong Era (Second Term)

Following the 2011 election, Lee Hsien Loong recognized the need to address the concerns of the electorate. The PAP introduced a series of reforms, including increasing the minimum wage, expanding social safety nets, and promoting greater transparency and accountability in government.

In 2015, the PAP won the general election with a reduced majority, securing 60% of the vote. The election results indicated that the PAP had regained some support among voters, but it also faced continued challenges from the opposition.

In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic struck Singapore. The PAP's handling of the crisis was widely praised, and the party won the 2020 general election with an increased majority, securing 61.2% of the vote.

The Future of the PAP

The PAP remains the dominant political force in Singapore, but it faces a number of challenges in the coming years. The party needs to address growing inequality, the rising cost of living, and the challenges of an aging population.

The PAP is also facing increased competition from the opposition. The Workers' Party has emerged as a credible challenger to the PAP, and other opposition parties are also making gains. The PAP will need to adapt to the changing political landscape and find ways to connect with younger voters.

Despite these challenges, the PAP is well-positioned to remain the dominant political party in Singapore for the foreseeable future. The party has a strong track record of economic success and social stability, and it has a deep bench of talented leaders.

The People's Action Party has been a central force in Singapore's development since its independence in 1965. The party has led Singapore through periods of economic growth, social modernization, and political stability. The PAP faces a number of challenges in the coming years, but it remains well-positioned to continue leading Singapore into the future.