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Presidential Election is a family affair of the PAP. Who confirms it? George Yeo.

 Presidential Election is a family affair of the PAP. Who confirms it? George Yeo.


In an interview, George Yeo confirms after losing Aljunied in 2011, PM Lee Hsien Loong offered him to run for president. But he only wants to be an “emergency spare tyre”.  Not only PM Lee, Lee Kuan Yew also did the same.


A state affair or an affair within a political party? Is it a family affair of the PAP?  They discuss and endorse their preferred  candidate. They don’t trust the people.  


This is the question of independence.  


The PAP, as the ruling party, always wants someone who is from the PAP family to be the president.  Ex-family members, like Tan Cheng Bock or even Tan Kin Lian will not serve their interest.


All the past elected presidents are members of the PAP family.  So, in the coming PE, the PAP is sending another member, Tharman.


This is why the word ‘independence’ is an eye-catching word.  Other potential hopefuls, as an alternative to the PAP, are coming out with slogans like “A chance for change”, “bring back Trust, give us Hope”.    


Does Thaman’s “Respect for All” mean independence?  Can his independent mind really cut his relationship and association with the PAP?    


In his personal views, George Yeo said, “ if a public institution is not easily understood by ordinary people… it will not function that well.”  He proposes a simple Senate system instead.


The Elected Presidency is a creation of the PAP to make sure the presidential power is within reach. It is still a free election but the PAP always has the strongest candidate.   


From the start in 1991, it did not work well. This is why we have more walkovers than free elections. Voters want more say, more independent views and seeking a breakaway from the PAP. And there is a chance, a hope and trust too.  



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