In a move that came as a surprise to many, the Singapore Democratic Party (SDP) raised the possibility – during a working lunch yesterday – that former presidential candidate Dr Tan Cheng Bock lead efforts toward an opposition coalition.
According to an announcement on the SDP’s website, the several opposition parties that were present, welcomed the move.
Some of the parties present there were the Reform Party, National Solidarity Party, Democratic Progressive Party and Singaporeans First Party.
Dr Chee Soon Juan said that,”With his experience and leadership, the SDP is confident that Dr Tan will be able to lead the effort.”
The former PAP MP Dr Tan’s rationale behind a coalition: “If we go in, we must go in as a team.”
As of late, there has been much speculation over the possibility of Dr Tan returning to politics in the next general election, and SDP’s working lunch seemed to be a step forward.
https://theindependent.sg.sg/as-tan-cheng-bock-urges-singaporeans-to-challenge-the-status-quo-speculation-continues-about-his-return-in-the-upcoming-elections/
According to SDP’s statement, various opposition parties expressed a necessity for them to come together and join efforts.
Mr Lim Tean, leader of the People’s Voice added that it is important that there be a more centralised form of leadership. Mr Lim also said that he hoped “all the relevant Opposition parties in Singapore will be able to join together in a real partnership and alliance”.
Similarly, Mr Ben Pwee, Democratic Progressive Party said that cooperation is necessary above all.
“There must not be ego politics within such a framework,” he said.
SDP’s full statement can be found here.
With a great push for Dr Tan to take a front role in the opposition scene, he just might be the next leader of an opposition coalition.
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obbana@theindependent.sg